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| The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down | 
 enlarge | Author: Anne Fadiman
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Category: Book
List Price: $15.00
Buy New: $8.19
You Save: $6.81 (45%)
Buy New/Used/Collectible from $7.97
Avg. Customer Rating:  (223 reviews)
Sales Rank: 114
Languages: English (Original Language), English (Unknown), English (Published)
Media: Paperback
Edition: 1
Number Of Items: 1
Pages: 352
Shipping Weight (lbs): 0.7
Dimensions (in): 8.2 x 5.5 x 1.1
ISBN: 0374525641
Dewey Decimal Number: 306.461
EAN: 9780374525644
ASIN: 0374525641
Publication Date: September 28, 1998
Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days
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| Customer Reviews:
 The Spirit Cathces You and You Fall Down December 7, 2008
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down is the story of a Hmong child diagnosed with epilepsy and her family's journey through a conflict between Western medicine and Hmong traditional health beliefs. The family escaped as refugees from Laos to be resettled in Merced, California. The conflict began when Lia experienced a seizure at 3 months old and was taken to the emergency room. Her medical team, based on the Western medical model, believed that Lia had epilepsy and could be treated adequately with anticonvulsants. Her parents believed her illness was qaug dab peg, described as the spirit catches you and you fall down. They believe the cure involved animal sacrifices and Hmong shaman medicine men. Lia's story was a description of a tragic case of miscommunication and lack of understanding of the family's cultural philosophy. Her uncontrolled epilepsy ultimately led to brain death at age 7. The author, Fadiman, presented the content in a narrative, non-opinionated way. The information is reliable and credible. Fadiman appears to have written the book to encourage a change in the policy of most healthcare providers to seek understanding and incorporate culture beliefs into their care. The American Nurses Association's Code of Ethics states that "the nurse, in all professional relationships, practices with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and uniqueness of every individual." The story of Lia brings this statement to life. Through Fadiman's writing she gives examples for healthcare providers to develop in their practice...compassion and respect for others and their values. Policies have move to provide translators for patients, however, Fadiman may believe there is more work to do. Developing compassion and respect for others can be taught. On a scale of 0-5 this book is a 5.
This is an outstanding book that gives a personal story as an example of why healthcare policy should change to do more than just provide a translator, but a deeper understanding of others' cultures with respect. This book should be required reading for nursing students and healthcare professionals. Anyone interested in healthcare and culture would enjoy this book.
An important lesson in Cultural Psychology November 29, 2008
This book is an excellent illustration of the importance of cross-cultural competence in the practice of psychology, education, and healthcare. After reading this book, I cannot imagine a case where any professional could walk into a situation with a client from another culture and fail to take stock of cultural factors.
The story beautifully illuminates how culture 'colors' all of our experiences, impressions, and perceptions. ALL practioners should read this book and take heed in professional practice. Further, because this book only highlights the challenges for professionals with ONE culture, there is a message between the lines that all cultures require this deep and specialized look at the values and norms therein.
Fascinating study of the important role cultural competency plays in Western medicine November 11, 2008
A very interesting and detailed look into the life of this young Hmong child and the important role that cultural barriers played in her medical care. A wonderful account from both points of views. I would say this is a must read for any doctor.
thought provoking October 19, 2008
marvelous book, well worth a thoughtful read; a little Hmong girl caught between well-meaning medical establishment and traditional culture. In microscopic detail shows how caring is not enough--cultural knowledge and understanding is needed as well. The author did a remarkable job, not only is the research impressive but the book is a great read. One of the best books I've read this year.
 Came damaged October 8, 2008
0 out of 5 found this review helpful
Because this book came along with two others, one which was quite huge and heavy, the book cover was damaged when it arrived. Other than that it arrived within estimated arrival time.
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