ArticlePDF Available

Abstract

Othering is a process that identifies those that are thought to be different from oneself or the mainstream, and it can reinforce and reproduce positions of domination and subordination. Although there are theoretical and conceptual treatments of othering in the literature, researchers lack sufficient examples of othering practices that influence the interactions between patients and health care providers. The purpose of this study was to explore the interactions between health care providers and South Asian immigrant women to describe othering practices and their effects. Ethnographic methods were used involving in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The analysis entailed identifying uses of othering and exploring the dynamics through which this process took place. Women shared stories of how discriminatory treatment was experienced. The interviews with health care professionals provided examples of how views of South Asian women shaped the way health care services were provided. Three forms of othering were found in informants' descriptions of their problematic health care encounters: essentializing explanations, culturalist explanations, and racializing explanations. Women's stories illustrated ways of coping and managing othering experiences. The analysis also revealed how individual interactions are influenced by the social and institutional contexts that create conditions for othering practices. To foster safe and effective health care interactions, those in power must continue to unmask othering practices and transform health care environments to support truly equitable health care.
... Care-providers' views of migrants also have an impact on care. Othering and discrimination towards migrants in the healthcare system based on culture, language, race and religious differences are known issues and affect access to and quality of services [122][123][124]. These practices involve implicit biases as well as overt racism and discrimination where migrants are viewed differently and provided sub-optimal care, which are justified through explanations of culturalism and racialization [122]. ...
... Othering and discrimination towards migrants in the healthcare system based on culture, language, race and religious differences are known issues and affect access to and quality of services [122][123][124]. These practices involve implicit biases as well as overt racism and discrimination where migrants are viewed differently and provided sub-optimal care, which are justified through explanations of culturalism and racialization [122]. Through culturalism and racialization migrants' are perceived as inherently inferior due to their worldviews, beliefs and race, and their health and care disparities are seen as being the result of their cultural and religious practices and genetics. ...
... Recognizing these biases and harmful ideologies and actively countering racism and discrimination are therefore also key to supporting ways of belonging and creating a care environment that is safe (Table 5). Care-providers can combat racism and discrimination by first being aware of their prejudices and consciously altering their language and behaviours while interacting with migrants [122,125]. They may also sensitize and educate others by modelling behaviour, speaking openly about issues of racism and discrimination and condemning unjust treatment of migrants [122,125]. ...
Article
Full-text available
Migrant families’ transnational ties (i.e., connections to their countries of origin) may contribute to their hardships and/or may be a source of resiliency. A care approach that addresses these transnational ties may foster a positive identity and give coherence to experiences. We conducted an integrative review to determine what is known about transnational ties and the care of migrant families during pregnancy, postpartum and early childhood.
... Described as "a set of dynamics, processes and structures that engender marginality and persistent inequality across any of the full range of human differences based on groups identities" [60], "othering" is an unfortunate consequence of systemic discrimination and prejudice. In most cases, "othering" manifests through different ways, such as essentializing explanations [61], culturalist explanations [61] (p. 262), and racializing explanations [61] (p. ...
... Described as "a set of dynamics, processes and structures that engender marginality and persistent inequality across any of the full range of human differences based on groups identities" [60], "othering" is an unfortunate consequence of systemic discrimination and prejudice. In most cases, "othering" manifests through different ways, such as essentializing explanations [61], culturalist explanations [61] (p. 262), and racializing explanations [61] (p. ...
... In most cases, "othering" manifests through different ways, such as essentializing explanations [61], culturalist explanations [61] (p. 262), and racializing explanations [61] (p. 263). ...
Article
Full-text available
This article extends an exploration into renewed ethico-legal perspectives of genome editing technologies, examined from an evolved conceptualization of eugenics in contemporary human reproduction. Whilst the ethico-legal conundrums presented by genome-editing technologies in various aspects of modern medicine have thus far inspired a comprehensive trove of academic scholarship—and notwithstanding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) publication of guidelines on human genome editing in 2021—the legislative landscape for these technologies remain relatively unchanged. Accordingly, this paper presents the unresolved problematic questions that still require significant reflection. First, the paper highlights these questions, which primarily center around the tension between reproductive autonomy and the legal governance of reproductive/genome editing technologies by a democratic state. Secondly, the paper interrogates the evolved conceptualization of eugenics, exercised on the part of prospective parents as part of reproductive autonomy. By this, the paper predicates that it indirectly reinforces societal and systemic problems of discrimination and “othering”, increasing reproductive inequalities in excluded communities. Thirdly, the paper attempts to offer narratives of intersectionality as a facilitating tool in a continuing dialogue to build belonging, foster a healthy and balanced exercise of reproductive autonomy, and increase reproductive equalities.
... only meant for India citizen still baffles me...Racial exclusion or 'Othering' is an ongoing phenomenon perpetrated against north-eastern migrant in cities.Fine (1994) states that the act of 'othering' towards minority group cultivates feelings of dominance and superiority over them. Eventually they are discriminated upon and get socially excluded.(Johnson et al., 2004) 'Othering' towards any community is a states that the distinct identity of the Northeast migrants increases their vulnerability causing anxiety within the urban space. Their calm and friendly character are often mistaken for weakness and helplessness (p. 17) The daily life of the North-Eastern people in Delhi is self-explanatory from th ...
Thesis
Full-text available
This paper is an ethnographic study that explores the literature pertaining to the ethnic identity, ancestral origin, and livelihoods of the Kukis i.e., considered ‘indigenous” in the North-eastern region. The study examines the migration pattern amongst the Kuki migrants settled in Delhi. Their ethnic identity is closely linked to their ancestral land and their livelihood practices thereby, forms a basis to prove their ‘indigeneity’ status. The traditional livelihood practices preserved by the Kukis including agriculture, hunting, and livestock rearing have subsequently linked their identity with the ownership of the land. The Kukis who have migrated have managed to maintain their ethnic identity and cultural practices despite the challenges posed by the migration process to the urban spaces. Political Instability and the lack of educational infrastructure were the primary factors pushing the migrants to out-migrate from their homeland. The study also investigates the role of social networks, laying emphasis on kinship and close-knit family relations in the migration and adjustment process. In an urban space like Delhi, various ethnic clusters such as Humayunpur, Munirka, Patel Chest, Kishangarh, etc, were initially formed by the pioneer migrants. The study analysed the impact of ethnic clusters on religious practices, accommodation, community building, and fostering a sense of belonging amongst the migrants. It also delves into the role of discrimination experienced by the migrants, and its effects on their daily lives, social communication and identity. By highlighting the statements made by the respondents, we shed light on the dynamics of the kind of discrimination faced by the Kuki migrants. Overall,this paper provides a comprehensive overview of the Kuki’s lived experiences of migration, the reformation of home and the preservation of cultural identity in Delhi.
... We might understand this as a process of 'othering'. That is, where discrimination based on difference occurs, and power inequalities are reinforced and reproduced through individual actions that are enabled by particular social contexts ( Johnson et al., 2009). This sense of exclusion can be understood as an othering process whereby those with or with a history of EDs become positioned as different and therefore 'othered'. ...
Article
Full-text available
Objectives: The UK government made it mandatory for large restaurants and cafes in England to display calorie labels on menus. Existing evidence identifies minimal potential for benefit, but significant potential for harm to those with eating disorders. To date, only one published study has directly explored the impact of this legislation on those with eating disorders. This study explores the impact of calorie labelling on menus on adults with experience of eating disorders in England. Design: A qualitative online survey was designed and distributed , and 399 adults with current or past experience/s of eating disorders completed the survey. Methods: Reflexive thematic analysis was used, informed by a critical realist approach. Results: Six themes were developed: (1) impacts on relationships , (2) exclusion and increased isolation, (3) restricted freedom, (4) dis/embodiment, (5) anger and frustration at the perpetuation of diet culture and (6) we are all responsible for ourselves. Most participants felt calorie labels on menus is detrimental to their eating disorder and/or recovery. People are navigating multiple opposing cultural narratives around health, bodies and eating disorder recovery that can put additional barriers in place to developing a relationship with food and body that they would like. Conclusions: Calorie labelling on menus is likely to adversely impact those with eating disorders. Menus with calories should be available separately but should not be the first or only one provided. People with experience of eating disorders should be directly involved in the development of public health legislation and policy that is likely to affect them
... Positioning theory has been used to examine how people produce and explain their behaviour and that of others, and how positions are invoked and negotiated [29,[34][35][36][37]. Positioning and other-positioning may result in marginalization, decreased opportunities, and exclusion [38]. HPs are continuously engaged with mothers in the NICU context, with its characteristic structural and socio-cultural working conditions. ...
Article
Full-text available
Introduction: Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are a global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Infection prevention and control (IPC) remains an important strategy for preventing HAIs and improving the quality of care in hospital wards. The social environment and interactions in hospital wards are important in the quest to improve IPC. This study explored care practices and the interactions between healthcare providers and mothers in the neonatal intensive care units (NICU) in two Ghanaian hospitals and discusses the relevance for IPC. Methodology: This study draws on data from an ethnographic study using in-depth interviews, focus group discussions involving 43 healthcare providers and 72 mothers, and participant observations in the wards between September 2017 and June 2019. The qualitative data were analysed thematically using NVivo 12 to facilitate coding. Findings: Mothers of hospitalized babies faced various challenges in coping with the hospital environment. Mothers received sparse information about their babies' medical conditions and felt intimidated in the contact with providers. Mothers strategically positioned themselves as learners, guardians, and peers to enable them to navigate the clinical and social environment of the wards. Mothers feared that persistent requests for information might result in their being labelled "difficult mothers" or might impact the care provided to their babies. Healthcare providers also shifted between various positionings as professionals, caregivers, and gatekeepers, with the tendency to exercise power and maintain control over activities on the ward. Conclusion: The socio-cultural environment of the wards, with the patterns of interaction and power, reduces priority to IPC as a form of care. Effective promotion and maintenance of hygiene practices require cooperation, and that healthcare providers and mothers find common grounds from which to leverage mutual support and respect, and through this enhance care for mothers and babies, and develop stronger motivation for promoting IPC.
... In COIL courses, it became necessary to be cognizant of concepts of othering and belonging and epistemological humility. While othering is a process that identifies those that are thought to be different from oneself or the norm which can perpetuate and replicate positions of dominance and subordination (Johnson et al., 2004), belonging is about experiences of being a part of the social fabric (Anthias 2006). Whereas the focus of "epistemological humility" in our learners offers them the realization that one's perspective of the world is not the only one. ...
Article
Full-text available
The value of internationalization within the limits of mobility has become more pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic. As reflection occurs on our own history, navigating a period of reset and renewal, this paper examines how to advance our thinking, and explore and transverse essential differences within the digital space. Hence, recalibrating the global north and south agenda to create inclusionary principles through virtual exchange. First, this ethnographic paper explores the sympoeitic relationship of creating opportunities and a sense of agency toward morphogenesis. Second, it focuses on the contextual rationale for Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) within higher education. Third, it explores equity in the digital space through multiple engagements in COIL. The paper offers associated conclusions for critical virtual exchange to advance equity, inclusion, and social justice and suggests responsible pluralistic internationalization.
... Whereas many coping strategies depended in one way or another on the social support of others, some participants lent support to others in the surroundings reciprocally, a phenomenon that researchers have also described as "altruism born of suffering" (Staub & Vollhardt, 2008). Similarly, Johnson et al. (2004) have described advocacy for one's ethnic group as a coping strategy in South Asian immigrant women in Canada and it may help minors to feel connected to something bigger, to step out of the dependent position of the aid recipient and to turn their aversive experiences into an asset. This provides a distinguished example highlighting the potential of coping resources located in the social sphere and within the (ethnic) community. ...
Article
Full-text available
Unaccompanied refugee minors (URMs) are a group in an especially vulnerable situation with heightened psychological suffering due to both stressful life events and current daily stressors. Research has shown that certain coping strategies such as avoidance can be adaptive in the face of ongoing stress. We conceptualize social support as an essential coping resource that these strategies tap into. Since the interrelations between these factors are often not clear in the literature, this study strives to identify and link URMs' coping strategies, the respective coping resources and the various stressors they target, shortly after arrival in a high-income country. Seventy-nine URMs from various backgrounds were recruited in two first-phase reception centers in Belgium. In addition to self-report questionnaires to assess stressful life events and current daily stressors, we conducted semi-structured interviews, with cultural mediators if required. Thematic analysis was applied to the participants' accounts and resulted in the identification of four coping strategies: avoidance and distraction, continuity and coherence, selective reliance, and positive appraisal and acceptance. The relation between these coping strategies, the various coping resources used, and the specific stressors at which they aim are discussed. We conclude that avoidant coping and contact with the ethnic community, particularly the peer group, are fundamental strategies for successful coping. Practitioners need to support URMs in their coping efforts by providing and facilitating appropriate coping resources.
... However, PWID avoid seeking formal healthcare services (e.g., community clinics, physician offices, emergency care teams) for a variety of reasons and therefore they often engage in self-care treatment(s) [20][21][22] . Reasons for their reluctance to utilise formal healthcare services include experiencing lengthy clinic and emergency wait times, being judged and feeling discriminated against by care providers and the resulting experience of being othered 23 , and being asked questions about their drug use 24,25 . In addition, PWID may delay accessing formal healthcare services due to a fear of drug withdrawal and inadequate pain management 26 . ...
Article
Health research is often embedded in biomedicine in which the goal is to remove all bias. However, this is problematic in research on social issues such as social and health inequities. Therefore, there is growing criticism of health researchers' positions as neutral and invisible. I explore research-based advantages and consequences following my positionings within whiteness, nursing and healthcare professionality. Drawing on two ethnographic studies conducted in Denmark, one among black Nigerian women working in the streets of Copenhagen, the other following patients, defined in Danish healthcare as 'ethnic minorities', in two hospitals in the greater Copenhagen area, I take the point of departure from autoethnographic emotions of 'doing good', 'discomfort' and 'denial'. As I analyse these emotions as a production in the contexts, I show the advantages and consequences of leaving my marked body unmarked. With an intersectional lens, I discuss how health researchers' risk (re)producing social inequalities in health based on for example, avoiding topics of skin colour and experiences of discrimination. Ultimately, what legitimized my access to the people in the field paradoxically also risked delegitimizing their experiences of racialized and ethnicized inequalities. This is not only consequential for the interlocutors but also for the knowledge production, since we as health researchers' risk implicitly avoiding important knowledge if we do not see our own research positionings as a racialized, ethnicized and culturalized matter. Therefore, the need for educational curriculum on racialization and anti-discrimination is imperative within the health professions and as health researchers regardless of profession or research area.
Article
Purpose Body positivity movement empowered plus-size women globally to speak up boldly about their clothing needs. Retailers cannot satisfy this group with some classic style offerings anymore. By taking clue from existing literature, this study aims to identify clothing preferences and problems related to ready-made plus-size clothing in India. Although many past literature pointed out about poorly fitted and size unavailability issues worldwide, very few of them addressed about clothing style preferences. Design/methodology/approach A self-administered close-ended questionnaire was used to answer a set of objectives. A pilot study with 40 plus-size women was carried out to check the reliability and validity of the instrument. Four hundred subject's data were gathered from six Indian cities with a purpose of varied geographical importance. Statistical tests like binomial distribution was used to analyze fit-related problems of 12 bodily sites such as shoulder, upper arm, lower arm, bust, waist, stomach, abdomen, hip, thigh, lower leg, armhole and elbow, and frequency charts were used to examine Likert scale data of sizing problems. The choices of 12 clothing styles were mapped through four factors which affect the purchasing decision of a plus-size woman. Findings Poor-fitted clothes at 10 body sites out of the 12 reflected about the fit aspect of plus-size clothing in India. Findings associated to sizing issues like unavailability of trendy clothes in appropriate sizes, which also adorn Indian curvy figure, shows synonymy to the worldwide researcher's findings related to sizing chaos. Classic silhouettes like Straight Indian kurti, A-line dresses and regular-fit trousers were majorly preferred by women. Hiding body bulges was mostly preferred while purchasing loose-fitted garments, and fitted garments were preferred only if these suits to the curvy body proportion. Appropriate fit and size availability are always a prime requisite for this class of women. Originality/value The outcomes of research will help Indian retailers/manufacturers to update their patterns in order to provide desired fit. In this lacuna of standard size chart, the study will add value in the development of Indian plus-size women's size chart. The factor mapping with clothing preferences will be useful to reduce rejections and inventories.
Article
The purpose of this article is to present colonizing images of African American women and describe how colonizing images and diagnostic labels function together to serve as oppressive mechanisms for African American women's health.The mammy, the matriarch, the welfare mother, the Jezebel, and the Black lady overachiever are representational images of African American women that contribute to how they are viewed and treated within the health care arena.
Article
This report of a study of 47 South Asian women who were recent immigrants to Canada reveals that these women face many challenges in settling in the new country and barriers to the receipt of social services. The findings emphasize the need to understand these women's experiences within the framework of the intersecting diver sities of race, gender, and class and to develop culturally and linguis tically sensitive social work policies and practice.
Article
This paper is concerned with the way in which discussions of the health status of people from minority ethnic groups and the delivery of health care to such groups has been constructed, in the nursing literature in particular, within a culturalist framework which has many serious drawbacks The paper reviews the argument for a ‘multicultural’ approach to health care and also discusses some of the main implications of this analysis for the education of health professionals It suggests that health workers and those responsible for the education of such workers, need to reassess learning needs in the light of a critique of the effects of an analysis based on ‘cultural pluralism’ and ‘ethnic sensitivity’ The paper suggests ways in which the nursing curriculum must be broadened to take into account the limitations of a culturalist approach and to debate the interplay of racism and other structures of inequality and their influence on health and on service delivery