학술논문
An observational study regarding prevalence of superstitious beliefs among patients admitted at a tertiary hospital in Indore
Document Type
Clinical report
Author
Source
Journal of Evolution of Medical and Dental Sciences. March 19, 2015, p3980, 6 p.
Subject
Language
English
ISSN
2278-4748
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Superstitious rituals are defined as 'unusual, repetitive, rigid behaviour that is perceived to have a positive effect by the actor, whereas in reality there is no causal link between [...]
INTRODUCTION: Superstitions have always been deep rooted in the Indian culture, and an integral part of everyday lives. Moreover, the people are tightly locked up in religious taboos thus taking useless Practices. Any cure for this disease brought about by means other than medical treatment, has a dramatic effect on people and strengthens their belief in supernatural powers. Ignorance of scientific reasons behind these phenomena increases the mystery and consequently gives a boost to superstition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was conducted to find out the prevalence of superstitious practices pertaining to medical conditions-i.e. typhoid, jaundice and psychiatric illness among 300 patients admitted at tertiary care hospital as studied in an interval of 3 months. A pre tested semi-structured questionnaire framed to assess the prevalence of superstitious practices in them. RESULTS: Superstitious practices were found more common in literate/Uneducated/Unemployed peoples. The most common age group involved was found to be 20-40 yr. group. Males are more involved in superstitious practices. The main reason found for the ignorance of scientific medical care are like- large distance from medical care, poor financial condition, fear of investigations, less trust on doctors, more belief on faith healing mid-way. However at last they convinced that the cure of any grave illness is not possible with means of faith healing alone. CONCLUSION: The present study clearly shows that superstitious beliefs still prevail in this modern world. This prevalence may block the wellbeing of the individuals and hinder their positive personal growth. Thus, steps should be taken to alleviate or at least reduce such superstitious beliefs, thus urging the people to think rationally and logically. KEYWORDS: Superstition, Indian culture, Religious taboos, Faith healing.
INTRODUCTION: Superstitions have always been deep rooted in the Indian culture, and an integral part of everyday lives. Moreover, the people are tightly locked up in religious taboos thus taking useless Practices. Any cure for this disease brought about by means other than medical treatment, has a dramatic effect on people and strengthens their belief in supernatural powers. Ignorance of scientific reasons behind these phenomena increases the mystery and consequently gives a boost to superstition. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was conducted to find out the prevalence of superstitious practices pertaining to medical conditions-i.e. typhoid, jaundice and psychiatric illness among 300 patients admitted at tertiary care hospital as studied in an interval of 3 months. A pre tested semi-structured questionnaire framed to assess the prevalence of superstitious practices in them. RESULTS: Superstitious practices were found more common in literate/Uneducated/Unemployed peoples. The most common age group involved was found to be 20-40 yr. group. Males are more involved in superstitious practices. The main reason found for the ignorance of scientific medical care are like- large distance from medical care, poor financial condition, fear of investigations, less trust on doctors, more belief on faith healing mid-way. However at last they convinced that the cure of any grave illness is not possible with means of faith healing alone. CONCLUSION: The present study clearly shows that superstitious beliefs still prevail in this modern world. This prevalence may block the wellbeing of the individuals and hinder their positive personal growth. Thus, steps should be taken to alleviate or at least reduce such superstitious beliefs, thus urging the people to think rationally and logically. KEYWORDS: Superstition, Indian culture, Religious taboos, Faith healing.