The Importance Of Japanese-American Culture

Japanese-Americans (JA) have an extensive history in the United States. Immigrating in the late 1800s and early 1900s, there were roughly 800,000 Japanese-Americans during the 2000 census. It is estimated that there are more than that, however, and that many of those who identify as Asian typically identify as two or more races (Tanabe, 2000.). The Japanese-American culture has evolved through the decades since their arrival. While some families have remained steadfast in their cultural beliefs, others have experienced varying levels of acculturation. As a professional, it is important to note when working with Japanese-American elders the traditions and cultures they practice and observe. Of equal importance to note is the historical experiences

Typically JA elders welcome prevention and health promotion as the concept of purity and balance promoted through traditional Shinto ideology is rampant in the culture (Huff, Kline & Peterson, 2015). The concept of cancer screenings can be seen as searching for the negative or inviting evil, particularly if the family practices Shintoism where cancer is seen to be impure and contaminated (Tanabe, 2000). Since the JA culture is collective as opposed to a traditional individualistic western culture, prevalent health care preferences often include familial decisions. Decisions are typically made keeping in mind a traditional hierarchy, leaving the husband or father of the house to preside. Following the husband, the eldest son is next in line, and, as Tanabe (2000) writes, his decision is often swayed by what the mother

“An empathic, blameless, problem solving approach” is more effective than blunt and direct, as Japanese in general are indirect (Tanabe, 2000). Courteous respect should always be forthright when speaking with any patient, but particularly those of Japanese descent. The concept of end of life care may be difficult depending upon how tightly held the traditional JA culture is to the family. Views on terminal illness could entail saying that translates to “it cannot be helped,” which can assist in reliving blame or thoughts of failure off an individual. Organ donation is typically not received well as traditional culture holds that the body dying intact is important. It can be difficult for more traditional Japanese families to understand the concept of “brain death,” as it may seem