Participation in a Culturally Grounded Program Strengthens Cultural Identity, Self-esteem, and Resilience in Urban Indigenous Adolescents

Am Indian Alsk Native Ment Health Res. 2022;29(1):1-21. doi: 10.5820/aian.2901.2022.1.

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Health Promotion
  • Humans
  • Indians, North American*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Self Concept
  • Social Identification