American Indian Elders' resilience: Sources of strength for building a healthy future for youth

Am Indian Alsk Native Ment Health Res. 2016;23(3):117-33. doi: 10.5820/aian.2303.2016.117.

Abstract

This study examined American Indian (AI) elders' resilience to support an intervention to build resilience among AI urban youth. A literature review of peer-reviewed articles that address resilience in AI and other Indigenous elders yielded six studies that focused on intergenerational relationships, culture, and self-identity. In addition, a qualitative research project collected narratives with urban AI elders to document perceptions of resilience and resilience strategies. The combined outcomes of the literature search and research project revealed how resilience is exemplified in elders' lives and how resilience strategies are linked to cultural teachings and values, youth activities, and education.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Humans
  • Indians, North American / ethnology*
  • Intergenerational Relations / ethnology*
  • Resilience, Psychological*
  • Urban Population