Hunter A, Carlos M, Muniz FB, Leybas Nuño V, Tippeconnic Fox MJ, Carvajal S, Lameman B, Yuan N. Participation in a Culturally Grounded Program Strengthens Cultural Identity, Self-esteem, and Resilience in Urban Indigenous Adolescents.
AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE MENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2022;
29:1-21. [PMID:
35255147 PMCID:
PMC10726381 DOI:
10.5820/aian.2901.2022.1]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Culturally grounded after-school programs (ASPs) aim to promote health and well-being among Indigenous youth. Native Spirit is a 10-session ASP that focuses on local cultural values and activities facilitated by local cultural practitioners. This pilot study used a single group, pretest-posttest design (N = 18) with Indigenous adolescents in grades 7-12 and conducted participant interviews (N = 11) to assess the impact of the program on cultural identity, self-esteem, and resilience. There were immediate post-program increases in mean strength in cultural identity (p = 0.002), resilience (p = 0.161), and self-esteem (p = 0.268). Themes related to benefits of program participation included curiosity and commitment to cultural identity, increases in self-esteem, and ability to build resilience. This study provides new insights on the relationship between cultural engagement and adolescent health.
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