Addressing Health Disparities: The Role of an African American Health Ministry Committee

Does Cultural Adaptation Have a Role in Substance Abuse Treatment?

“…In addition to the appeal of an empowerment approach as a strategy for affecting social change, the available evidence suggests clinical reasons to promote empowerment as well (Austin & Harris, 2011; Gutierrez, 1990). Therapeutic interventions that instill a realistic sense of personal control and personal responsibility can facilitate skill development for the client to change not only the problem behaviors (e.g., substance abuse) that led to treatment but also to withstand broader contextual factors (e.g., discrimination) possibly related to the maintenance of behavioral change (e.g., avoiding relapse).…”

“…Therapeutic interventions that instill a realistic sense of personal control and personal responsibility can facilitate skill development for the client to change not only the problem behaviors (e.g., substance abuse) that led to treatment but also to withstand broader contextual factors (e.g., discrimination) possibly related to the maintenance of behavioral change (e.g., avoiding relapse). Conversely, individuals who feel powerless are frequently less aware of their choices and opportunities (Austin & Harris, 2011; Gutierrez, 1990). Specifically, Austin and Harris (2011) argue that clients who perceive themselves as powerless to challenge interpersonal, social, and societal inequities are more likely to present with poor coping skills that ultimately adversely affect their response to treatment.…”

Ministers’ Perceptions of Church-Based Programs to Provide Depression Care for African Americans

“…Prior to conducting the focus groups, researchers modified the question guide based on feedback from members of the church's Health Ministry, a committee of congressional members who promote health-related activities at the church. 50 The final question guide is shown in Table 1. Each of the focus groups (n03) was facilitated by the primary investigator, an African American male psychiatrist.…”

The Role of the Black Church, the Barbershop/Beauty Salon, and Digital Communication to Support African American Persons Living With HIV/AIDS

“…Black churches are key to promoting health education to their members, and it has been recommended that the various stakeholders collaborate with the Black churches to reduce the disparity in health education (DeHaven, Hunter, Wilder, Walton, & Berry, 2004;Resnicow et al, 2002). Austin and Harris (2011) captured the essence of the role of the Black church by stating:…”

“…A recent study conducted by Austin and Harris (2011) examined the role of the health committee within a Black congregation. Results indicated that health information, including information about HIV and AIDS provided by the volunteers, (a) served as a catalyst for increasing health awareness, (b) contributed to discussion among family members regarding health issues, and (c) empowered individuals to take responsibility for their health.…”