Development of “CULTURE FORWARD: A Strengths and Culture-Based Tool to Protect Our Native Youth From Suicide”

Victoria M. O’Keefe, Emma Waugh, Fiona Grubin, Mary Cwik, Rachel Chambers, Jerreed Ivanich, Rose Weeks, Allison Barlow

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Indigenous knowledge and practices promote American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN; Native) communities’ health and well-being. Historical losses and continued oppression have resulted in disproportionately higher AI/AN youth suicide rates. This article describes the development of a new national resource guide titled “CULTURE FORWARD” for tribal leaders and stakeholders to support youth suicide prevention efforts through cultural strengths. Method: The CULTURE FORWARD guide was developed over 6 months through a community-engaged process. We conducted nine roundtables and eight interviews with a wide variety of community members, leaders, and providers representing 36 diverse tribal communities and geographic regions. Participants discussed AI/AN youth risk and protective factors, successful community efforts to prevent suicide, and content and dissemination ideas. A comprehensive literature review complemented qualitative findings. A diverse and representative National Advisory Editorial Board guided content and design throughout development. Results: Qualitative data were analyzed iteratively and thematically. Across all listening sessions, culture was identified as a key protective factor against AI/AN youth suicide. Five themes related to cultural strengths informed guide chapters. Each chapter includes an introduction; how that theme helps prevent Native youth suicide; a review of academic literature, community stories and programs; action steps; and additional resources. Conclusions: CULTURE FORWARD honors and empowers communities by weaving strands of knowledge, stories, and practical resources highlighting Native communities’ strengths to protect against Native youth suicide. The guide is free online and print copies are being distributed nationally.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)587-597
Number of pages11
JournalCultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology
Volume28
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 30 2022

Keywords

  • Alaska native
  • American indian
  • Culture
  • Suicide prevention
  • Youth

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Social Psychology
  • Sociology and Political Science

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