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You are here: Experts > Cultures > Hawaii/South Pacific for Visitors > Hawaii > Time perception
Expert: Malia
Date: 10/5/2008
Subject: Time perception
Question
Im doing a culture project for nursing school and the topic I am covering is time perception. I would just like to know how the Hawaiian culture perceives time...especially in relation to healthcare. Also, any website or database links you could provide would be great. Thank you.
Heather
Houston, TX
Answer
Aloha,
We have something called here Hawaiian time meaning first of all people arrive 15 to 30 minutes late to any event which is annoying at times.
However it also helps people to be more relaxed, at a red light no one honks if it turns green and you don't drive on right away. Hawaiians live 5 years longer here than on the mainland because we take things easier here, this is due to the mix of cultures so everyone has to be patient and tolerant and understanding and then the weather plays a big part of it too of course cause it is hot and sunny all year long.
Finally in healthcare, I am not sure I understand exactly what you mean, but in regards to disease, death or getting better the Hawaiians are very patient again because of the influence of the Asian culture which often perceives death as a normal part of life and the Hawaiian believe the spirits continue to live with the Amakua or Ali'i ( departed and also old chiefs that died long ago ). Finally we have a strong Western influence in healthcare having the privilege of having one of the best health care systems in the world and I would say 99 % of the people here trust that a mix of Western medicine and Asian will cure them, with spices, herbs and acupuncture, but then also medicines, surgery and traditional treatments,
Hope this helps
Malia
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