Intersectionality of Resilience: A Strengths-Based Case Study Approach With Indigenous Youth in an Urban Canadian Context

Abstract

By bringing together two important areas of contemporary health research—resilience among Indigenous youth and intersectionality theory—this study advances an intersectionality of resilience framework that exposes intersecting forms of oppression within inner city urban contexts, while also critically reframing intersectionality to include strength-based perspectives of overlapping individual, social, and structural resilience-promoting processes. Drawing on Indigenous methodologies, a “two-eyed seeing” approach, and Stake’s case study methodology involving multiple data sources (i.e., four sharing circles, 38 conversational interviews, four rounds of photovoice, and naturalistic interactions that occurred with 28 youth over an entire year), this qualitative study outlines three intersecting processes that facilitate youth resilience and wellness in various ways: (a) strengthening cultural identity and family connections; (b) engagement in social groups and service to self and community; and (c) practices of the arts and a positive outlook. In the end, implications for research, clinical practice, and health or community interventions are also discussed.

Community Perspectives on Social Influences on Suicide Within a Native American Reservation

“…Although there are similarities to other established models of suicide risk (Brendtro et al, 2005; Brokenleg, 2005, 2012; Chandler & Lalonde, 2008; Hatala et al, 2017; Kirmayer, 2014; Kirmayer et al, 2011; Liebenberg et al, 2015; Njeze et al, 2020; Shaffer et al, 1996; Wexler, 2014; Wexler et al, 2009), this model includes features that are more prevalent in the experience of Native individuals, including the impact of overcrowded households and family composition, significant grief burden due to premature deaths, the stigma surrounding treatment-seeking, and contagion. Our model of NA youth suicide is the first of its kind to be informed by decades of qualitative and quantitative research, including recognizing the importance of giving voice to local stakeholders and community members.…”

“…As such, it becomes particularly important to recognize the etiology and multiple, unique risk factors—including social determinants of health—when identifying opportunities to employ prevention and intervention efforts at community levels and to collect specific, context-rich, local data. There are many studies of cultural strengths, wellness, and resilience among Indigenous youth (Brendtro et al, 2005; Brokenleg, 2005, 2012; Chandler & Lalonde, 2008; Hatala et al, 2017; Kirmayer, 2014; Kirmayer et al, 2011; Liebenberg et al, 2015; Njeze et al, 2020; Shaffer et al, 1996; Wexler, 2014; Wexler et al, 2009). Our work builds upon this foundation by examining these themes through the lens of one community’s experience.…”

“…The current form of the model primarily accounts for factors at specific levels (Tingey et al, 2014). Given that prior research also points to the potential salience of group norms and related social influences in driving youth suicide (Brendtro et al, 2005; Brokenleg, 2005, 2012; Chandler & Lalonde, 2008; Hatala et al, 2017; Kirmayer, 2014; Kirmayer et al, 2011; Liebenberg et al, 2015; Njeze et al, 2020; Shaffer et al, 1996; Wexler, 2014; Wexler et al, 2009), there is a need for an increased understanding of these factors and how they are perceived to transcend or influence factors at the specific levels of the model. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to further inform the model by contributing local perspectives about the broad social influences that may contribute to NA youth suicide in this specific context.…”

“Then Who Are You?”: Young American Indian and Alaska Native Women Navigating Cultural Connectedness in Dating and Relationships

“…Cultural continuity and connectedness have been explored and expressed as a protective factor among Indigenous youth through identity, belonging, and connections to land, language and spiritual and cultural practices (see for example, Chandler and Lalonde 2008;Mohatt et al 2011). Cultural engagement or identity has been demonstrated integral to youth resilience among Indigenous youth in Canada (Njeze et al 2020). The Indigenous Connectedness Framework suggests that cultural connectedness is a key mechanism of Indigenous wellbeing that includes environmental, community, family, intergenerational and spiritual connectedness (Ullrich 2019).…”

“Connection to Culture Is Like a Massive Lifeline”: Yarning With Aboriginal Young People About Culture and Social and Emotional Wellbeing

“…Culture provides a framework for how people conceptualize their needs and relationships (Grieves, 2009). It provides self-confidence, identity, accountability, strength, a sense of belonging and purpose, emotional support, resilience, and agency (Dudgeon et al, 2014(Dudgeon et al, , 2016Elliott-Groves & Fryberg, 2017;Njeze et al, 2020;Shepherd, 2019). Young adulthood is a vital life stage when these attributes develop, with young people moving into independence, exploring their identities, gaining responsibilities, and navigating transitions with careers and relationships (Munsey, 2006).…”