Physical activity of Korean immigrant women in the U.S.: needs and attitudes

Int J Nurs Stud. 2001 Oct;38(5):567-77. doi: 10.1016/s0020-7489(00)00097-3.

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to explore women's own needs for and attitudes toward physical activity among Korean immigrant women in the US using feminist approach and transition theory. This was a cross-sectional study consisting of quantitative and qualitative phases. Using convenience sampling methods, 54 Korean immigrant women were recruited for the quantitative phase, and 15 women among them were recruited for the qualitative phase. Questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used to collect data. The data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and thematic analysis. The findings indicated that the women's needs for and attitudes toward physical activity were influenced by the contexts of their culture and immigration, and deeply associated with the women's daily experiences. Some implications for future research and nursing practice are proposed based on the findings.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acculturation
  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adult
  • Attitude to Health / ethnology*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Cultural Characteristics*
  • Emigration and Immigration*
  • Exercise / physiology
  • Exercise / psychology*
  • Female
  • Feminism
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Korea / ethnology
  • Middle Aged
  • Motivation*
  • Needs Assessment / organization & administration*
  • Nursing Methodology Research
  • Psychological Theory
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • United States
  • Women / education*
  • Women / psychology*