Question

IRISH CASE STUDY
The O’Rourke family lives on a small farm in Iowa and comprises David, aged 30; his
wife, Mary, aged 29; and two children: Bridget, aged 7, and Michael, aged 6. Both David
and Mary are second-generation Irish. Before purchasing their farm 5 years ago, David
sold farm equipment in Ohio. The O’Rourkes are Catholic; Mary converted to
Catholicism when they married.
David, who works long hours outdoors, is concerned about profitability from
his corn crop because of the unpredictable size of the harvest, and thus, his income
varies depending on the weather. Mary did not work outside the home because she
wanted to be with their children until they started school. However, because both
children are now school age, Mary has discussed with David the possibility of working
part time to supplement the family income. He would prefer that she stay at home, but
Mary is anxious to return to the workforce and believes the timing is right.
Both David and Mary are happy with just two children and do not desire more.
They use the rhythm method for family planning.
Eating a healthy breakfast is important to the O’Rourkes. Because eggs are
readily available on the farm, they have fried eggs with potato bread and juice at least
four times a week. Their main meal in the evening usually includes meat, potatoes, and
a vegetable. David enjoys a glass of beer with dinner.
David has been a little edgy lately because of his concerns about the corn crop.
He admits to having some minor chest pain, which he attributes to indigestion. His last
visit to a physician was before their marriage. Mary knows David is concerned about
finances and believes it would help if she had a job.
Bridget and Michael spend a lot of time outside playing and doing some minor
chores for their parents. Both children enjoy school and are looking forward to
returning in the fall. Bridget is starting to show concern over her appearance. She does
not like her red hair and all the freckles on her face. Her teacher has noted that Bridget
has trouble reading and may need glasses. Michael wants to be a farmer like his Dad
but worries about his Dad being tired at night.
The O’Rourkes have not taken a vacation since they were married. They go to
the state fair in the summer, which is the extent of their trips away from home. They
are active in the church and attend services every Sunday.
Study Questions

5. Describe culturally competent health-promotion strategies for the identified risk
factors for the O’Rourke family.
6. Describe the O’Rourke family’s fertility practices. Are they congruent with their
Irish background and religious beliefs?
7. Describe the O’Rourke family’s communication patterns.
8. What are the predominant health conditions among Irish immigrants?

Answer 1

5, Corn crop farming Irish culture more prone to corn disease. their food habits increase the chance of cardiovascular disease and high cholesterol. Too much workload leads to stress and weakness and other psychological illness.
6, Fertility behavior considered a matter of individual choice. Religion plays an important role in Irish culture. catholic beliefs and Irish background family fertility practice limited in early marriage, they follow the natural fertility method, especially farmer catholic Irish women have higher fertility concern.
7, Irish family children live with their parents until they become financially independent. catholicism in traditional role women stay at home to take care of their children, there will be a close band between children and parents.
8, Irish immigrant has a well -documented physical and psychological health problem, they experience more stressful conditions that lead to poor health, their children also have more stress and suffer from depression and psychological distress.