The Need to Consider Ethnocultural Context in Prevention Programming: A Case Example from Hawai‘i

Abstract

Objective: This article highlights the importance of incorporating ethnocultural contexts in prevention research and programming. We provide a case example from our research in youth violence prevention in Hawai‘i. Methods: Data were collected in multiethnic communities on O‘ahu. Focus groups were conducted with high school-aged youths of Native Hawaiian, Filipino, and Samoan ancestry. Results: In analyzing narrative data regarding the broad theme of ethnoculture, a deeper issue became apparent during the focus group discussions—negative ethnocultural stereotypes and discrimination. Conclusion: Understanding ethnocultural issues is critical in decision making regarding prevention programming, particularly the need for deep-structure, culturally grounded interventions.

Keywords:

• teen dating violence prevention
• ethnocentrism
• stereotypes
• discrimination
• qualitative methods

Acknowledgments

This study was supported by funding from the State of Hawai‘i Department of Health, Sexual Violence Prevention Program, Maternal & Child Health Branch, and from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (5U49CE000749-03). The authors wish to acknowledge the support of the Asian/Pacific Islander Youth Violence Prevention Center, including Research Associates Mr. F. Petelo Sele and Ms. Tara Hiramatsu.