Work

Cultural norms shaping research group interviews with Chinese American immigrants.

Year: 2011

Type: article

Abstract: Practical knowledge on how to tailor research methods for Asian Americans is relatively scarce despite the rapid population growth of this ethnic group and the ongoing calls for greater cultural competence among researchers. Based on a 4-year qualitative study of family and cultural issues in diabetes management among Chinese American immigrants, this article presents data-based analyses of culturally nuanced group interview processes, and recommendations for conducting culturally appropriate group interviews. Group interview processes were prominently shaped by 4 cultural norms: sensitivity to social hierarchy, monitoring public display of strong emotions, face concerns, and emphasis on group harmony. Strategies for facilitating open and dynamic group interviews in the presence of these norms were identified. Skillful facilitation of group processes, either by accommodating or diffusing norms, was required to promote participant rapport and encourage disclosure of everyday experience.

Source: Asian American Journal of Psychology

DOI: 10.1037/a0024184

Authors: Christine M. L. Kwan, Kevin M. Chun, Catherine A. Chesla

Institutions: University of California, San Francisco, University of San Francisco

Language: English

Topic: Qualitative Research Methods and Ethics

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Nursing Research

Award: Family Processes in Chinese Americans with Diabetes