NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURE

Native American Culture

Native American Culture

In terms of establishing Native American identity, there is no universally accepted criterion. Tribal membership is determined by the tribe itself, and criteria vary across tribes. According to the U.S. government's Bureau of Indian Affairs, to be eligible for services through this organization, an individual must be a member of a state- or federally recognized tribe and must have at least one-half Indian blood of tribes native to the United States of America, or at least one-fourth Indian ancestry (Renfrey, 2006).

Discussion

Native Americans are prone to certain health problems more than are other segments of the population. For example, there are high rates of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and alcoholism among Native Americans (Nebelkopf, 2008). The rate of type 2 diabetes is four times the national average for American Indian elders, affecting one in five. Consistent with the general population, however, heart disease is the leading cause of death for Native Americans (De Coteau, 2006). In comparison to that of other racial and ethnic groups, the life expectancy of Native Americans is appreciably lower. According to the work of Everett Rhoades, reasons for this discrepancy may include poverty, greater risk of interpersonal violence, increased abuse of substances, vehicular accidents, and greater rates of disease (e.g., diabetes) (Milbrodt, 2008).

In terms of mental health challenges, Native Americans most frequently experience substance abuse, anxiety, and depression, as described by Emily Sáez-Santiago and Guillermo Bernal. Some protective factors that may help maintain good mental health for Native Americans include a strong ethnic identity and involvement in cultural activities and traditions. For example, (Heinrich, 2006) has suggested that participation in cultural activities and ceremonies may protect against depression, the experience of emotional distress, and stress for traditional Native Americans.

Further, the strong emphasis on the importance of family in ...