The purpose of the study was to describe the beliefs and practices related to health and illness among Korean Americans from the Korean American layperson's point of view. The study also examined the extent of the retention of these beliefs and practices among the second generation of Korean Americans in comparison with the first generation. A sample of 65 Korean Americans, 35 of the first generation and 30 of the second generation, aged 18 and over and residing in the greater Boston area was selected by the stratified snowball sampling method. Data for this descriptive study was gathered via semistructured interviews using open ended questions. A four step qualitative method was used for data analysis.

The results showed that Korean Americans' beliefs about health and illness were comprehensive and included all aspects of human beings: biological as well as social, psychological, and emotional and the interaction among them. This conceptualization of health and illness was a synthesis of western and oriental concepts of health and illness. With regard to illness management, a wide range of treatments were utilized by Korean Americans. Some treatments were self care and others were provided by professional care givers. They also utilized both western health care and Korean home remedies either concurrently or consecutively. The family was found to be an important factor in choosing treatments. Cultural diversity was evident within Korean Americans. The extent of the retention of traditional beliefs and practices may depend on education, religion, age, and the generation. Although Korean Americans share many beliefs and practices related to health and illness, subcultural groups may hold to particular beliefs and practices. Conclusions were that consideration of traditional beliefs and practices may be essential in delivering effective nursing care. However, it is equally important not to overgeneralize and assume that all members of an ethnic group have same beliefs and practices. The implications of this study for nursing practice and recommendations for further research are discussed.