Perspectives of South Asian Youth in the United States about Gender Norms and Healthcare Decision Making.

This study explores the perspectives of South Asian youth in the United States on gender norms and healthcare decision making through focus group discussions with 36 university students of South Asian origin. Three main themes emerged: the intersectionality of gender with factors such as age and family hierarchy influencing healthcare decisions, the impact of gender inequity on health outcomes for women and men, and coping strategies employed by youth to navigate traditional gender roles. Participants reported preferential treatment of boys over girls, male dominance in healthcare decisions, and health disparities affecting women, while some noted gradual shifts toward more egalitarian family dynamics. The findings highlight the need for culturally sensitive social work interventions that consider these intersectional gender norms and call for further research on gender's influence in healthcare decision making among South Asian youth in the U.S.