Family, Culture, Medicine

A Problem-Based Learning Case

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Abstract

This four-part problem-based learning case examines cultural conflicts between Western medicine and non-Western traditional healing practices. Students consider notions of cultural relativism and ethnocentrism through the lens of social institutions, including the family and the medical system. After an introductory scenario, students are asked to assume the roles of ethics committee members of a national nursing professional organization to provide advice to a member chapter confronting a difficult clinical situation. Student work involves individual and group assignments, written products, and oral presentations. While developed for a course on the sociology of the family, the case could easily be adapted to other sociology courses such as social problems, sociology of culture, and sociology of medicine, as well as disciplines such as public health and social work.

Objectives

• Gain an introduction to a sociological approach to the study of culture.
• Explore the significant ways families are repositories and transmitters of culture, as well as how culture shapes families' relationships and practices.
• Apply knowledge of culture and families in the specific context of the medical system.
• Apply knowledge of culture and families in advocating for appropriate and culturally competent child protective services and policies.
• Gain familiarity with aspects of the structure and role of professional organizations.
• Practice critical thinking and oral and written communication skills.
• Practice and evaluate effective group process.

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