Conformity with nature: a theory of Chinese American elders' health promotion and illness prevention processes.

Grounded theory methodology was used to generate a substantive theory that describes and explains the beliefs and behaviors regarding health promotion and illness prevention among Chinese elders in the United States. On the basis of data collected from 21 Chinese elders, the theory, conformity with nature, emerged. Three interrelated subprocesses--harmonizing with the environment, following bliss, and listening to heaven--were identified. This theory facilitates an understanding of ways to promote health and prevent illness and offers a guide for providing quality health care to Chinese elders in the United States.