Overcoming the odds, resiliency in First Nations adults

• Main Author: Sebescen, Margaret R.
• Language: English
• Published: 2007
• Subjects: First Nations
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1993/2437

This research explored factors related to resiliency in a sample of First Nations adults. Using the complementary orientations of the salutogenic, phenomenological and umanistic models, interviews were conducted with 2 male and 2 female resilient First Nations adults. Consistent with current definitions of resiliency, these adults have reputations within the community and among their peers as being successful role models, healers or leaders as well as survivors. Interviews assessed life histories as well as methods of coping. Data consisted of interview transcripts and was analyzed using qualitative methods. Results support the validity of the theoretical models of Kobasa's hardiness construct and Antonovsky's sense of coherence as well as the personality theories offered by Maslow, Adler and Rogers. Additional findings indicate that forgiveness and spiritually transformative events may contribute to resiliency.