A qualitative perspective of barriers to health-promoting behaviors of African Americans.

African American mortality and morbidity rates remain alarmingly high. Implementation of health promotion strategies can be effective in reducing these rates. Yet, African American health-promoting behaviors remain inadequate. Exploration of perceived barriers to implementing health-promoting behaviors from a qualitative perspective may lead to a better understanding of African American barriers to healthier lifestyles. The purpose of this study was to explore barriers to health promotion for African Americans from a qualitative perspective. Focus group interviews were held in two southeastern states. The results yielded three themes. These were cost, lack of discipline versus not having enough time, and a lack of motivation. When health care professionals develop treatment strategies for African Americans, these barriers should be considered to aid in the development of more efficacious plans of care.