Living in two worlds: First Nations women leaders' perspectives on cultural continuity, cultural identity, and youth

• Main Author: Yates, Robin
• Other Authors: Lalonde, Christopher
• Format: Thesis
• Language: English
• Published: 2008
• Subjects: First Nations; Aboriginal; Women; Culture; Identity; Youth; Canada; Development; Adolesent; Cultural Continuity; UVic Subject Index::Humanities and Social Sciences::Psychology::Developmental psychology
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/1828/903

This research project explores the relation between the participation of First Nations women in local governance and the well-being of First Nations youth. To explore this relation, semi-structured interviews were carried out with eleven First Nations women leaders. Special attention was paid to how these women conceptualized their relationships with youth and the differing approaches the women took to connect youth with their culture. The research aimed to identify: (1) the historical, social, and cultural influences that supported or challenged these women’s participation in government and their ability to influence youth; (2) how the women’s interest in the well-being of youth was influenced by their gender, family, and cultural roles; and (3) how these women described their contributions to the health and well-being of youth. Results point to four main themes that underpin the women’s activities as they relate to youth health and well-being: Identity, Relationships, Living in Two Worlds, and Holistic Caregivers.