Question

Japanese Case Study 1

This case study is a composite of actual situations. Marianne, who is American, and Ken Shimizu, who is Japanese, have worked in Tokyo for over 30 years as Methodist missionaries.

1. Identify some of the cultural issues that may lead to conflict in this international family.

2. What are the family resources for this international family?

3. What factors within the Japanese health system may account for the late diagnosis of Ken’s glaucoma?

4. What practical issues might arise for the Shimizus if Mother Shimizu were placed in a long-term-care facility in the United States?

5. What dietary factors may contribute to Marianne’s hypertension?

Answer 1

1.Self-care is an important aspect of the American culture,because independence is valued so highly .But the japanese usually believe in interdependence rather than independence.American culture is based on egalitirian culture and considers everyone as equal.But in Japanese culture there is a clear hierarchial structure in which the male dominates the family.But japanese Americans tend to be modest with family members.

2

3 the japanese health system is based on herbal therapy,Acupuncture and moxibustion are widely practiced .Traditional east asian medicineis based on holistic principles and the goal of this therapy is to restore the energy within the body and between the human body and its environment.They believe that certain qualities sch as food,weather conditions,types of activity and human relations, are out of balance ,the flow of energy within the body is impaired.

4 One of the major issues would be related to culture.They believe in physical boundaries.So before performing physical examination request permission to touch the client before doing so.If possible a female client prefers a female health care provider.Encourage family involvement.

5.Food preferences are based on origin and many members pefer items containing carbohydratesand red meat items..THe health risks are haypertension,cancer,heart disease,diabetes mellitus and Obesity.Most of them lead sedentery life style and addicted to fizzy drinks,fried and junk foods.Frozen pizza,canned soup are some of the items which is included in a normal Americn dietTHis may be one of the factor which resulted in hypertension.