A Comparative Understanding of Health Concepts

This study explored the understanding of health of people from Korea. Data were collected from a total of eighteen focus groups: Koreans (living in Korea), Korean-Australians, Korean-Americans and Australians. The data were analysed using QSR NUD＊IST. The meaning of health varied among people and it was related to differences in age, culture, gender, marital status and perceived health status of individuals. However, there were several themes common to everybody. All groups included aspects of physical, mental, emotional (and spiritual), environmental and social dimensions in their definitions of health. All young single groups placed more emphasis on physical and lifestyle factors whereas mental and emotional aspects and social responsibility were more associated with health among older married groups. Young women in all cultures felt social pressure to 'look good' and the media was perceived as responsible. Men in general associated health with societal roles and social competition. Health was strongly associated with the economy and economic stability for all Korean groups reflecting the recent adverse economic situation in Korea. This information will be of value to health professionals to provide more effective health services and health promotion programs for clients of Korean ethnicity living in multicultural societies like Australia and America.