Articlegold2018

The role of faith leaders in influencing health behaviour: a qualitative exploration on the views of Black African christians in Leeds, United Kingdom

Nii Lante Heward-Mills · Catherine Atuhaire · Chris Spoors · Ngambouk Vitalis Pemunta · Gunilla Elise Priebe · Samuel Nambile Cumber

83 citations0/0 files storedPan African Medical Journal

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Religion, Spirituality, and Psychology Community Health and Development Religion, Society, and Development

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Black African communities in the U.K suffer from health disparities compared to the general population. This has been attributed to the lack of culturally sensitive interventions that are meaningful to them. Faith leaders are an integral part of the community and are known to have immense influence on health behaviour of congregants and community members. However, their role in health behaviour change (alcohol and tobacco use) has been largely neglected. The aim of this study is to explore the views of Black African Christians on the role of their faith leaders in their health behaviour, with particular focus on the extent of influence and mechanisms that foster this. METHODS: Eight (8) semi-structured interviews were conducted with Black African Christians between the ages of 25-44, from two churches in Leeds, UK. Data were analysed using the principles of thematic analysis. RESULTS: Findings revealed that faith leaders could play a very important role in the health behaviour of their congregants. Faith leaders are able to influence health behaviour not only on the individual level but also on a socio-cultural and environmental level. They exert such influence through several mediators including through scriptural influence, social influence and by serving as a role models. However, no single mediator has been found to be exclusively associated to health behaviour change. CONCLUSION: Congregants view faith leaders as having an immense influence on their health behaviour. As a community resource, faith leaders could be better positioned to organize and foster community participation in health matters. Health promoters should thus consider collaborations with faith leaders to enhance the health of their community.

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References

1998The Religion-Health Connection: Evidence, Theory, and Future Directions 2003Achieving Cultural Appropriateness in Health Promotion Programs: Targeted and Tailored Approaches 1999Cultural sensitivity in public health: defined and demystified.2013Mental Illness Stigma, Help Seeking, and Public Health Programs 2001Religious attendance increases survival by improving and maintaining good health behaviors, mental health, and social relationships 2000Religion and Health: Public Health Research and Practice 2004Health Programs in Faith-Based Organizations: Are They Effective?2013The Role of Religious Leaders in Promoting Healthy Habits in Religious Institutions

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