Envisioning an ecological systems theoretical approach to sexual and reproductive health programs in Greenland

Authors

  • Malory Peterson Montana State University
  • Gitte Adler Reimer University of Greenland
  • Elizabeth Rink Montana State University.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7146/gksf.vi.145156

Abstract

People in Greenland experience disparate sexual and reproductive health (SRH) outcomes relative to populations in other circumpolar countries and Denmark. SRH in Greenland is intrinsically linked to multiple levels of an individual’s life, including family, partner relationship, healthcare access, and unique sociocultural factors. In this article we advocate for the use of ecological systems theory to design SRH programs in Greenland that incorporate the many interrelated systems that affect individual health outcomes. We introduce key concepts and strengths of ecological systems models for SRH programs, and we elucidate specific constructs of ecological systems theory that complement the existing Greenlandic health environment. We suggest that ecological systems theory is culturally congruent with how people in Greenland understand the interconnectedness of individuals, families, communities, and the natural and built environment. Incorporating ecological systems theory in SRH program design may promote interorganizational collaboration of SRH services, and integrate SRH education across family, school, and healthcare settings.

Author Biographies

Malory Peterson, Montana State University

Predoctoral candidate from Montana State University with 12 years of experience in culturally adapted sexuality education and STI/HIV epidemiology. Her research interests include community driven climate adaptation research and using mixed methods to holistically address socio-ecological challenges.

Gitte Adler Reimer, University of Greenland

PhD, rector of Ilisimatusarfik. Her areas of specialization include cultural and social anthropology, cultural identity, kinship and gender in the urban Arctic, population dynamics in Greenlandic settlements, and anthropological methodology.

Elizabeth Rink, Montana State University.

PhD, professor at Montana State University. She has practiced communitycentered research in Kalaallit Nunaat for 18 years. Her research interests include examination of the social, cultural, psychological influences of sexual and reproductive health among indigenous populations, community based
participatory research, and ethics.

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Published

2024-05-06

How to Cite

Peterson, M., Reimer, G. A., & Rink, E. (2024). Envisioning an ecological systems theoretical approach to sexual and reproductive health programs in Greenland. Cultural and Social Research in Greenland, 165–187. https://doi.org/10.7146/gksf.vi.145156

Issue

2023: Grønlandsk Kultur- og Samfundsforskning

Section

Articles

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