Chapter 1: Introduction (Draft)

Influence of Diseases in Specific Cultures

A Research Paper Presented to

Mr. Dustin Celestino of the English Resource Center

Asia Pacific College

Magallanes, Makati

In Partial Fulfillment

Of the Requirements for the Course

RESWRITE-Research Writing

Angela Ashley F. Villaluz

February 2013

Chapter 1

Introduction

      A.    Background of the Study

The term “disease” is broad and rather difficult to place in a specific sort of definition; the very well-known definition is tedious to place in a single sentence. The subject has a variety of terms, categories, sub-categories, etc., that may seem limitless, and differs in each cultures. For the latter, it is called “culture-bound syndrome” or “culture-specific diseases”.

Culture-bound syndrome is defined as a disease recognized only in specific cultures or societies. To be more specific, it is a collection of symptoms and signs which are only defined as a disease only to those of the specific culture. But coming across different articles, the main definition still varies and has no solid form whatsoever. Psychiatrists have called these “exotic psychotic syndrome”, and it was once believed to be prevalent in only in Eastern culture, until Western society has found out of its own prevalent culture-bound syndrome. (http://www.stayfreemagazine.org/archives/21/mental_illness.html)

 As stated by the article by Carrie McLaren and Alexanra Ringe above, a known possible example would be anorexia and bulimia nervosa, of which are influenced by Western society’s fixed definition of beauty, represented by tall skinny women that are seen in television and magazines. Anorexia nervosa is under Eating disorders, with its well-known symptoms and signs are “[the patient] refuses to maintain body weight at or above 85% of normal weight for age and height” and “intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat, despite being underweight. (http://socialcosmos.library.uu.nl/index.php/sc/article/viewFile/36/32)

The researcher observes that in each culture, there is a varying degree of how the populace acts towards certain illnesses. An example would be the Kuru, or Laughing Disease which was prevalent long ago in Papua, New Guinea. Though many experts have tried to uncover the truth behind the disease, the people of the Fore tribe concludes that the disease is caused by contagious magic, and have been careful to dispose of anything personal (i.e, nails, hair, excretions, etc.)
(http://anthro.palomar.edu/medical/med_4.htm)

Culture-bound syndrome is said to be common among Eastern society. Most, if not all, are merely ways to explain a few mysteries regarding an unexplained phenomenon prevalent in their society. In the Philippines, there is a unique sort of folk illness called pasma, an illness attributed to the interaction of heat and coldness. It has its own signs, symptoms, perceived causes and diagnosis known in Philippines folk medicine. Although it is not entirely recognized by professional medical anthropologists, nor is it discussed in medical institutions.

“Because the culture-bound syndromes are so varied, there can be no single type of diagnostic or therapeutic approach.” – Dr. Ronald Simons, “An Introduction to Culture-Bound Syndromes”

Rather than focus solely on the broad categories of diseases, this paper focuses specifically on diseases which affects various cultures and society.

B.     Statement of the Problem

This study aims to answer this question:

I. In what way do diseases affect specific societies and cultures?

C.     Significance of the Study

Students who are taking a course in the medical field. This research will help specify the factors which partake in developing specific folk illnesses, its history,  as well as help define its effects on the populace that are a part of the culture.

Future Researchers. This research aims to help those who wish to further explore the topic, as well as give them a thorough report on specific folk illnesses and its remaining influence in today’s modern society.

D.    Scopes and Delimitations

This research aims to explore the aspects that affect society wherein it develops into a culture-bound syndrome or a folk illness.

Due to time constraints, the researcher aims to focus on diseases and its influence. Certain aspects such as its connection to other cultures and how to categorize one sort of disease as a folk illness will not be fully explored, although it shall be brushed upon in specific articles.

Resources of the research will focus on professionals and their studies on the subject, as well as their opinions and viewpoint upon the matter.

E.     Materials and Methods

The research will follow a descriptive method, wherein the researcher’s aim to explore the factors and effects of culture-bound syndromes. It will state several ideas and information as to how one disease is only prevalent in specific areas, and how it influences the populace not only physically, but psychologically.

Information will be gathered from credible sources and articles found in the internet, as well as from books and specific individuals with knowledge on the subject.

F.      Definition of Terms

Medical anthropologists. Those who are involved in the study of human health, disease and healthcare systems.

Folk illness. Another term for culture-specific syndrome.