Cultural differences in healthcare: An investigation using cognitive-affective mapping

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Mental Health Research
• Sociology

Background:

• Refugees in Germany frequently lack adequate mental healthcare services.
• Understanding specific healthcare needs is crucial for developing effective, culturally sensitive, and accessible health interventions.
• Existing research highlights the gap in mental health support for refugee populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the factors supporting and hindering the health of refugees in Germany.
• To investigate refugees' perspectives on their healthcare needs using a novel visualization technique.
• To inform the development of culturally appropriate mental healthcare services for refugees.

Main Methods:

• An exploratory study involving 30 refugees from diverse origins (West Africa, Middle East, Ukraine).
• Utilized cognitive-affective maps (CAM), a digital mind-mapping tool, for participants to visualize health-related factors.
• Qualitative analysis of CAM concepts using deductive and inductive category formation.

Main Results:

• Supporting factors were categorized as 'resources' and 'possibilities for explicit treatments,' indicating refugee openness to well-being initiatives.
• 'Psychological challenges,' 'living conditions in Germany,' and 'access to healthcare' emerged as significant hindering factors.
• Preliminary frequency analyses suggested potential differences between refugee subgroups, warranting further investigation.

Conclusions:

• Refugees express a willingness to engage in well-being practices but face substantial barriers related to psychological distress, living conditions, and healthcare access.
• The study highlights the need for tailored mental healthcare solutions that address the specific challenges faced by refugees in Germany.
• Future research should explore the heterogeneity within refugee populations to ensure inclusive and effective healthcare delivery.