Citation

Walters KL, Simoni JM, Evans-Campbell T. Public Health Rep. (1974) 2002; 117(Suppl 1): S104-S117.

Affiliation

School of Social Work, University of Washington, 4101 15th Avenue, NE, Seattle, WA 98105-6299, USA. kw5@u.washington.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2002, Association of Schools of Public Health)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

10705356

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This article proposes a new stress-coping model for American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIs) that reflects a paradigmatic shift in the conceptualization of Native health. It reviews sociodemographic information on AIs, rates of substance abuse and related health outcomes, and the research supporting the model's pathways. OBSERVATIONS: Although health outcomes among AIs are improving, large disparities with other racial and ethnic groups in the United States remain. Many health-related problems are directly linked to high rates of substance use and abuse. CONCLUSION: Eurocentric paradigms focus on individual pathology. An "indigenist" perspective of health incorporates the devastating impact of historical trauma and ongoing oppression of AIs. The model emphasizes cultural strengths, such as the family and community, spirituality and traditional healing practices, and group identity attitudes.

Language: en