Exploring the knowledge, explanatory models of illness, and patterns of healthcare-seeking behaviour of Fang culture-bound syndromes in Equatorial Guinea.

ABSTRACT: In 1994, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) included "culture-bound syndromes" in its classification of psychiatric disorders and associated them with disease processes that manifest in behavioural or thought disorders that develop within a given cultural context. This study examines the definitions, explanatory models, signs and symptoms, and healthcare-seeking behaviours common to Fang culture-bound syndromes (i.e., kong, eluma, witchcraft, mibili, mikug, and nsamadalu). The Fang ethnic group is the majority ethnic group in Equatorial Guinea. From September 2012 to January 2013, 45 key Fang informants were selected, including community leaders, tribal elders, healthcare workers, traditional healers, and non-Catholic pastors in 39 of 724 Fang tribal village

SUBMITTER: Jimenez Fernandez R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6128453 | biostudies-literature | 2018

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature