Trauma in American Indian Communities
http://www.giftfromwithin.org/html/amindian.html
There are numerous American Indians tribes throughout the United States. Although each tribe represents a distinct cultural group, American Indians share a similar history in that the populations were decimated by colonization and the westward movement. Additionally, many American Indian communities experience losses on a daily basis. These losses sometimes are the result of natural causes, while at other times they are due to sudden and terrifying events. In fact, it is reported that American Indians are more likely to die through violence in comparison to all other races (IHS, 1999). It is well understood that traumatic losses and witnessing traumatic events can have a negative impact on an individual’s ability to function. In some cases the historical losses, current experiences of loss, and witnessing violent events can result in symptoms of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD; Cohen, Mannarino & Knudsen, 2004; Cohen Mannarino, Deblinger, 2006; Yellow Horse Brave Heart 2003).
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Submitted on: 30-Jan-2008
