Health Psych Session 3- Culture And LGBT

Question 1

What is the AAMC definition of culture?

Answer 1

Culture is defined by each person in relationship to the group or groups with whom he or she identifies
Based on heritage as well as individual circumstances and personal choice
Culture may be affected by many factors
These beliefs and practices influence how patients and healthcare professionals perceive health and illness and how they interact with one another

Question 2

What problems may arise in healthcare related to culture?

Answer 2

Lack of knowledge- resulting in an inability to recognise the differences
Self protection/denial- leading to attitude that differences are not significant
Fear of unknown or new
Feeling of pressure due to time constraints- can lead to feeling rushed and unable to look in depth at individual patients needs

Question 3

What can occur if the initial cultural problems are not dealt with?

Answer 3

Patient provider relationships are affected- understanding of each others expectations is missing
Miscommunication
Non compliance and not understanding patient perspective
Rejection of healthcare provider
Conflict or isolation within staff groups

Question 4

Define sexual orientation

Answer 4

Term used to describe what gender you are attracted to and sexual attraction includes feelings, behaviour and identity

Question 5

Define gender identity

Answer 5

Someone’s internal perception and experience of their gender

Question 6

Define gender role/expression

Answer 6

The way the person lives in society and interacts with others

Question 7

Define transgender

Answer 7

Umbrella term for those whose gender identity and/or gender expression differs from their birth sex

Question 8

Describe a transsexual person

Answer 8

Someone who feels a consistent and overwhelming desire to transition and fulfil their life as a member of the opposite sex- some undergo ‘gender reassignment’

Question 9

How can discrimination lead to poorer health?

Answer 9

Increased stress
Low self esteem
Isolation
Increased conflict
Sub culture
Distrust of authorities
Discriminatory healthcare

Question 10

What health needs are the most prevalent in LGBT society?

Answer 10

Mental health- anxiety, depression and suicidality
Substance use- smoking, alcohol and recreational drugs
Cancer- lesbians should have smear tests, MSM more likely to contract anal cancer
STIs- HIV and syphilis more common in MSM

Question 11

What are your duties ethically and legally as a doctor caring for LGBT patients?

Answer 11

Do not let your views prejudice treatment
Challenge colleagues behaviour
Respect all patients, colleagues and others regardless of their sexual orientation
It is illegal to discriminate on grounds of sexual orientation or gender identity in provision of goods and services, in education and in the workplace