Date of Award

6-13-2000

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Social Work (MSW)

Department

Social Work

First Advisor

Clarice Staff, D.S.W.

Second Advisor

Sharon Patten, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Cecilia Martinez, Ph.D.

Abstract

This qualitative study used focus groups to conduct an assessment of capacities and needs of a large upper Midwest American Indian community's views of adolescents who have mental health issues and are violent. The study elicited feedback from 1) providers serving American Indian youth and their families and, 2) the community in general. A total of eleven individuals participated in two focus groups. The interview questions covered the areas of personal experiences with adolescents, strengths and challenges of American Indian youth, available resources and whether they meet the needs of American Indian youth. Findings reveal that the strengths of family, community, elders, spirituality and culture should be supported in addressing the challenges of American Indian youth. Also, it has shown that communities are capable of creating recommendations and solutions to its social issues. Information from this study may be used to develop appropriate program interventions in the future design of mental health programs for this unique population.

Identifier

SC 11.MSW.2000.Barrett.YL

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