The American and Alaska natives have had a long cultural conflict with the white Europeans. A historical review of the mentioned population reveals how they were oppressed and disenfranchised. The cultural differences between the Natives and the white Europeans are historically described as a tradition against civilization.
When the Europeans invaded America, they came from countries where people have already made immense progress in medical practices (Spector, 2009). On the other hand, the natives have never subscribed to modern medical practices. In general, cultural and communication problems have been the central focus of conflict between the Native Americans and white Europeans.
The natives have always had trust issues when dealing with the white Europeans. Historical treaties between the two native communities and white Europeans were always dishonored. The white Europeans used tricks to unsettle natives from their lands, and this created intergenerational anger and grief. In this respect, the native communities perceived white-dominated health services as a strategy to exterminate their existence (Spector, 2009).
There are several cultural and communication problems. The natives are not used to traditional medicine. Their culture greatly differs from that of modern people. Natives’ health is based on natural medicines. The preparation of medical remedies comes from the heart and care. There are no synthesized chemical ingredients, as everything that is used for treatment comes from the environment. Communication is another aspect of the medical care provided that has its misunderstandings.
The expectance of such care from modern civilization comes with limits, as the “white” population does not understand the needs of the natives. The differences in communication come from the cultural beliefs that have been predominant for centuries.
Native American’s communication style is often nonverbal. This means that the normal questions done by physicians are considered unnecessary. They view many questions as taboo and lack of respect. More so, they do not give out personal information and do not permit such to be written down in a notebook.
The American and Alaska natives have been passing down information by word of mouth for many generations. One of the possible solutions is the acculturation and education in terms of intercultural understanding. The acknowledgment of traditions and beliefs is crucial in learning about native people. A point of contact, such as social programs, would ensure a common interest and direction.
The cultural problem between the native populations and white Europeans require promotion of cultural diversity and tolerance programs. In this respect, education should be a key factor in ensuring that native populations are educated adequately to counter prejudice, as well as intergenerational anger and mistrust. Exchange and sharing of cultural values should ensure that no people are perceived as superior to others.
In this respect, the Native Americans’ self-determination and education act of 1975 should be promoted to gain acceptance amongst the Americans. This will harness respect for cultural diversity. Ensuring that native populations are educated and allowed to train in medical practices is critical in changing natives’ perception towards medical practices. Patience and respect are critical in bridging the communication gap between the two cultures.
In order to fix the situation, education must be provided. When people learn the intricate nature of another culture, they begin to realize the values that accompany the population. Training medical practitioners on how to handle members of native populations are key in avoiding both cultural and communication challenges.
Reference
Spector, R. E. (2009). Cultural diversity in health and illness. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education Inc.