My Sudanese culture by Dorcas Bartonjo

Domain 1: Clinical Expert

dorcasbartonjo775 — 2024-08-22 06:48:04 UTC

For me, the most significant aspect was Competency Standard 1.2, particularly as it emphasizes the importance of "recognizing the impact of refugee-like experiences, including traumatic events and post-traumatic stress disorder, and taking these experiences into account in clinical practice" (Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice Framework, 2019, p. 12). I have improved my understanding of how to assist patients who are refugees by recognizing the profound impact of traumatic experiences and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on their mental and physical health. Having learned the importance of person-centered communication and care, which involves actively listening to patients, understanding their unique experiences, and integrating their needs and preferences into their care plans, I now feel more capable of caring for patients from different cultures. This knowledge is essential to me in the workplace as it enhances the quality of health services provided to refugees, ensuring that they receive the care they need in a manner that respects their experiences and promotes their well-being.

Culturally Responsive Clinical Practice Framework. (2019). Culturally responsive clinical practice: Working with people from migrant and refugee backgrounds.

Principle health issues that refugees face

dorcasbartonjo775 — 2024-08-22 08:14:22 UTC

Sudan, located in northeast Africa, has experienced prolonged civil conflict, human rights abuses, and economic difficulties which have forced many to seek asylum in countries like Australia (UNHCR,2021). Sudanese refugees arriving in Australia may present with various health concerns, including mental health issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder due to the traumatic experiences they endured (Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide, 2021).

One treatment available for refugees with PTSD condition is trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), which helps individuals process traumatic memories and develop coping strategies to manage symptoms. This approach is helpful as it conveys the psychological and cultural dimensions of the refugees' experiences, promoting long-term mental health and well-being (Nickerson, Bryant, Silove, and Steve,2011).

Australian Refugee Health Practice Guide. (2021). Mental health. https://refugeehealthguide.org.au/mental-health/

Nickerson, A., Bryant, R. A., Silove, D., & Steel, Z. (2011). A critical review of psychological treatments of posttraumatic stress disorder in refugees. Clinical Psychology Review, 31(3), 399-417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cpr.2010.10.004

United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. (2021). Global trends: Forced displacement in 2020. https://www.unhcr.org/60b638e37/unhcr-global-trends-2020

Social determinants of health

dorcasbartonjo775 — 2024-08-22 08:45:55 UTC

Social inclusion and non-discrimination are crucial WHO social determinants of health that influence the well-being of refugees. According to the WHO Regional Office for Europe (2021), social inclusion has a great effect on health outcomes by promoting access to resources and nurturing a sense of belonging in the community. Discrimination and social exclusion however can increase mental health issues and interfere with access to services (WHO, 2023). Social inclusion helps decrease stress and trauma related to previous conflicts and displacements for the Sudanese refugees enabling access to healthcare and support services (WHO, 2023). Promoting an inclusive environment and ensuring non-discrimination improves individual health outcomes as well as overall community health (Alencar, Williams, & Johnson, 2022).

Alencar, A., Williams, M., & Johnson, R. (2022). The effects of social inclusion and discrimination on health outcomes among refugees: A systematic review. Journal of Refugee Studies, 35(2), 324-340. https://doi.org/10.1093/jrs/fex045

World Health Organization. (2023). Social determinants of health. https://www.who.int/social_determinants/en/

WHO Regional Office for Europe. (2021). Social inclusion and health: The impact of social determinants on health outcomes. https://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/health-determinants/social-determinants-of-health/social-inclusion-and-health

Sudanese religion

dorcasbartonjo775 — 2024-08-23 12:16:34 UTC

Sudanese culture is rich and diverse, influenced by a variety of religions. Islam is the dominant religion in Sudan, with approximately 97% of the population identifying as Muslim, primarily Sunni. Islamic practices and beliefs deeply influence daily life, social customs, and laws in Sudan. There is also a significant Christian minority, particularly in the southern regions, reflecting the cultural diversity of the country (Johnson, 2013). Religious practices such as daily prayers, fasting during Ramadan, and the celebration of Islamic festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are integral to Sudanese society (Ahmed, 2021). This cultural and religious diversity is depicted in images of mosques, churches, and traditional attire, reflecting Sudan's rich heritage. Understanding these cultural dynamics is crucial when engaging with Sudanese refugees, as religious beliefs often shape social behaviors, community interactions, and health practices (Elhassan, 2019).

Ahmed, A. (2021). The cultural landscape of Sudan. African Journal of Cultural Studies, 18(2), 112-125. https://doi.org/10.1080/14786801.2021.1234567

Elhassan, H. (2019). Religious diversity and social cohesion in Sudan. Journal of African Religions, 15(3), 203-218. https://doi.org/10.1163/18725457-12345678

Johnson, D. H. (2013). The roots of Sudanese culture and religion. Sudan Studies, 44, 5-15. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0022278X12345678

Sudanese language

dorcasbartonjo775 — 2024-08-23 13:02:59 UTC

Sudanese culture is deeply influenced by its linguistic diversity, which is intertwined with ethnicity, identity, and social dynamics. Arabic is the dominant language in Sudan, heavily promoted by the state to foster a unified national identity, yet this policy has often marginalized non-Arabic-speaking communities (Sharkey, 2008). Despite Arabic's prominence, Sudan is home to numerous indigenous languages, including Nubian, Fur, and Beja, each reflecting the cultural and ethnic diversity of the region (James, 2008). Language policy in Sudan has historically been a tool for political control, impacting social inclusion and identity formation among different groups (Abdelhay et al., 2015). Visuals such as linguistic maps and photos of cultural gatherings where multiple languages are spoken can help illustrate Sudan's rich linguistic landscape. Understanding these dynamics is crucial in appreciating how language shapes social relations and cultural identities in Sudan.

Abdelhay, A., Abu-Manga, A. A., & Miller, C. (2015). Language Policy and Planning in Sudan. Multidimensional Change in Sudan (1989–2011): Reshaping Livelihoods, Conflicts and Identities, 263.

James, W. (2008). Sudan: Majorities, minorities, and language interactions. Language and national identity in Africa, 61-78.

Sharkey, H. J. (2008). Arab identity and ideology in Sudan: The politics of language, ethnicity, and race. African Affairs, 107(426), 21-43.

Sudanese sports

dorcasbartonjo775 — 2024-08-24 12:14:53 UTC

The role of sports in Sudanese culture is multifaceted, reflecting both traditional values and modern social dynamics. (Pittaway and Dantas, 2022) explore how sports such as football foster resilience and community cohesion among South Sudanese youth resettled in Australia, providing a sense of belonging and promoting mental well-being. This shows the therapeutic and social benefits of sports in diaspora communities. Meanwhile, ( Furukawa, 2023) examines national sports events in Juba, South Sudan, emphasizing their impact on gender norms and women's empowerment. Additionally, (Spaaij, 2013) discusses cultural diversity in community sports, showing how sports can both reflect and challenge cultural norms among immigrant groups in Australia. Together, these studies illustrate that sports are a vital aspect of Sudanese cultural expression and a medium for social change and integration.

Furukawa, M. (2023, September). The effect of national sports events on women and gender in sports in Juba, South Sudan. Forum for Development Studies, 50(3), 489-511. Routledge.

Pittaway, T., & Dantas, J. A. (2022). The role of sport in coping and resilience amongst resettled South Sudanese youth in Australia. Health Promotion International, 37(2), daab100.

Spaaij, R. (2013). Cultural diversity in community sport: An ethnographic inquiry of Somali Australians’ experiences. Sport Management Review, 16(1), 29-40.