Cultural Background and Societal Influence on Coping Strategies for Physical Activity Among Immigrant Women.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of the study was to examine, from an intersectional perspective, how immigrant women with prolonged illness experience the conditions for physical activity.


METHODS
Focus groups were used. Twenty-two women from primary care representing 14 countries were included. Systematic text condensation was applied for analysis.


RESULTS
Five conditions were identified: Dual cultures to relate to, Isolation an invisible danger, Keys to physical activity, Physical activity for whom, The power to decide the agenda.


CONCLUSIONS
This study shows the importance of raising the intersectional perspective for immigrant women's possibilities to perform physical activity. Immigrant women's vulnerability to power relations and their adjustment to society's expectations are significant considerations to be aware of.


CONCLUSIONS
Our findings emphasize the significance of collaborating in biomedical and psychosocial issues, considering that the obstacles are more comprehensive than society assumes regarding prior knowledge, isolation, and cultural rules.
1 University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.
Cecilia
C
Jörgensdotter Wegnelius
2 Research / Development Primary Health Care, Region Västra Götaland.
Eva-Lisa
EL
Petersson
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D003469:Culture; D054242:Emigrants and Immigrants / Q000523:psychology*; D015444:Exercise / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013548:Sweden
immigrant women; intersectional; physical activity; primary care; prolonged illness