Traditional Medicine and Help-Seeking Behaviors for Health Problems Among Somali Bantu Refugees Resettled in the United States

Abstract

Somali refugees have resettled in the United States in large numbers. The focus of this study was specifically on the Somali Bantu refugees, an ethnic minority group from Somalia. The goal of this study was to understand the following: (a) jinn (invisible beings or forces in Islamic theology) and related health problems resulting from jinn possession affecting Somali Bantu refugees, (b) types of traditional healing practices integrated into help-seeking behavior, and (c) pathways of care utilized to address health problems. In total, 20 participant interviews were conducted with Somali Bantu refugees resettled in the United States. Overall, participants described types of jinn and associated health problems. In addition, participants identified different pathways of care, including formal and informal health care. Participants accessed these pathways both concurrently and sequentially. Somali Bantu utilize complex and varied health care services based on their understanding of the causes of health problems and experiences with care providers.