Conceptions of wellness among the Yup'ik of the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta: the vitality of social and natural connection.
Focus group research was conducted to examine indigenous conceptions of wellness among the Yup'ik Eskimos of southwestern Alaska. The dialogue on wellness emphasized the importance of living a traditional lifestyle, seeking creative solutions to manage drastic cultural change, and fostering connection within the communities and the native landscape. These themes mesh well with existing characterizations of Alaska Native experiences and worldviews, and reflect substantial links between enculturation, acculturation and health. The data underscores the importance of comprehending local conceptions of wellness in order to effectively work toward promoting optimal health. This paper represents part of an ongoing dialogue in which researchers and native communities co-direct the investigation into healthy ways of being in the world.
Wolsko
Christopher
C
Department of Psychology, University of Oregon, Central Oregon Programs, 1027 NW Trenton Bent, OR97701, USA. cwolsko@uoregon.edu
Lardon
Cecile
C
Hopkins
Scarlett
S
Ruppert
Elizabeth
E
D000069:Acculturation; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000413:Alaska; D003469:Culture; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D004930:Inuit / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D036301:Qualitative Research