Psychosocial Health of the Badjao People During COVID-19 in Jolo, Philippines: An Exploratory Study
Background: The Badjao, a nomadic maritime group in Southeast Asia, face heightened vulnerability during public health crises due to their reliance on maritime livelihoods, limited healthcare access, and historical marginalization—challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a...
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| Published in: | Nurse Media : Journal of Nursing Vol. 14; no. 2 |
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| Main Authors: | , |
| Format: | Journal Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
31-08-2024
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| Online Access: | Get full text |
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| Summary: | Background: The Badjao, a nomadic maritime group in Southeast Asia, face heightened vulnerability during public health crises due to their reliance on maritime livelihoods, limited healthcare access, and historical marginalization—challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is a significant research gap in understanding their unique needs and vulnerabilities especially its specific impacts on their health and well-being due to pandemic.Methods: This study explores the psychological and social health of the Badjao and the factors affecting theme during the COVID-19 pandemic using an exploratory qualitative design. Guided interviews were conducted through focus-group discussions with 10 purposively selected Badjao respondents from Barangay Bus-Bus, Jolo-Sulu, Philippines. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.Results: The study identified five key themes related to the psychosocial impact of COVID-19 on the Badjao community. These included Feelings and Apprehension, with anxiety over contracting the virus and financial instability; Responses to the Pandemic, marked by fear of death, job loss, and hospitalization concerns; Coping Mechanisms, where the community relied on traditional remedies, social support, and quarantine adherence; Social Status, highlighting food insecurity and disrupted social interactions; and Factors Influencing Psychosocial Health, focusing on the importance of support systems and access to accurate information and resources.Conclusion: The pandemic has significantly disrupted the social and economic stability of the Badjao community, exacerbating their existing vulnerabilities. They need a culturally sensitive interventions that address both their immediate and long-term needs. Collaboration with local government units and stakeholders are crucial in supporting the resilience and well-being of the Badjao in future crises. |
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| ISSN: | 2087-7811 2406-8799 |
| DOI: | 10.14710/nmjn.v14i2.55968 |