Date of Graduation
1998
Document Type
Dissertation/Thesis
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to systematically describe and analyze differences in value orientations and perceptions of caring of the Ethiopian Nuer. The study addressed the meaning of caring and its most important elements to the Nuer. The study also endeavored to identify relationships between value orientations and perceptions of caring and the demographic characteristics of the sample. The demographic characteristics that were considered included: sex, generation, literacy, place of residence, and religion. The convenience sample for this study was comprised of 54 subjects. They were interviewed in order to complete a demographic questionnaire, the Caring Questionnaire, and the Value Orientation Schedule (Kluckhohn & Strodtbeck, 1961). Interviews were conducted in the Nuer language. Study subjects described caring in terms related to the following themes with the first five being most important: having physical needs met; being cared for by a kim; receiving treatment; having good relationships with the care-giver; having good results of care such as improving or being cured; practicing self-care; intervention by God; and being diagnosed, having a physical examination and receiving health teaching. Responses to the Value Orientation Schedule in the relational series showed a preference for collateral relationships in 2 items, lineal relationships in 2 items, and individual relationships in 3 items. In the man-nature value orientation series, man being in harmony with nature was preferred. There was a preference for the present time in the time value orientation series and for doing in the activity value orientation series. Health care or community development personnel could gain valuable insights into the types of care desired and the values of the Nuer. With application of this knowledge satisfaction with health care by the Nuer could increase and conflicts between clients and health care professionals could be decreased. The study could serve as a basis for teaching cultural sensitivity to health care providers. Nursing students and educators could be taught to use the caring and value orientation tools in this study to assess values of clients and thus improve care.
Recommended Citation
Hall, Connie Ann, "The value orientations and perceptions of caring of Ethiopian Nuers." (1998). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 8984.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/8984