Navigating asthma-the immigrant child in a tug-of-war: A constructivist grounded theory

Area of Science:

• Pediatric respiratory health
• Sociocultural impacts on health
• Qualitative research methodologies

Background:

• Avoidable hospitalisation rates for Indian immigrant children with asthma are high in Western countries.
• Existing research primarily focuses on carer and health professional perspectives, neglecting the child's voice.
• Understanding children's asthma experiences is crucial for improving care and reducing hospitalisations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore and understand the lived experiences of Indian immigrant children managing asthma.
• To give a voice to children regarding their asthma management, adhering to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
• To address the gap in research concerning children's perspectives on asthma.

Main Methods:

• Constructivist grounded theory approach was employed.
• Intensive interviews were conducted with ten family carers and nine children (aged 8-17).
• Child-sensitive techniques, including drawing and photography, were used for younger children.

Main Results:

• A grounded theory, 'navigating asthma: the immigrant child in a tug-of-war,' was developed.
• The core social process identified was a 'tug-of-war' between native Indian and host New Zealand cultures.
• A secondary 'tug-of-war' emerged between family carers' and children's preferences in asthma management.

Conclusions:

• Acculturation and sociocultural factors significantly influence asthma experiences in Indian immigrant children.
• The developed theory aids healthcare practitioners in understanding the sociocultural context of asthma management.
• Culturally safe asthma management strategies require partnership between healthcare providers and immigrant families.