(1) Background: This study aimed to examine adult participants perceptions of the Thiwáhe Gluwáš’akapi (TG) program. We recruited 13 of 85 (15.3%) adult participants from various previous cohorts of the TG program, separated into lower and higher participation groups. Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted. This study was conducted on a Northern Plains reservation, and interviews took place via phone. (2) Methods: Semi-structured interviews with 13 adult participants with children aged 10–12 were completed. Audio files were transcribed and analyzed with ATLAS.ti. (3) Results: Qualitative analysis of these interviews revealed several themes: positive reception by families, enhanced connections to Lakota culture and community, and improved familial relationships. Several barriers to participation emerged, such as difficulties with transportation, scheduling conflicts, and lack of time, which can inform implementation strategies. Observed themes showcase positive impacts of TG on parent–child relationships and cultural connection, aiding overall wellbeing and substance use discourse. (4) Conclusions: Participants in the TG program expressed high satisfaction with the program, gained new skills, and improved family dynamics. Future implementation of TG should include additional transportation support and session scheduling options, in addition to updated implementation strategies to further improve Lakota families’ mental health and wellbeing.
substance use outcomes
Early-Onset Alcohol Use among Native American Youth: Examining Female Caretaker Influence
This article investigates the influence of female caretaker substance use on early-onset youth drinking among Native American families in the Northern Midwest. Data include 603 Native American families, with reports from female caretakers and youths aged 10-13 years. Two potential caretaker influences are taken into account: adolescent modeling of caretaker behaviors and the effects of caretaker substance abuse on parenting.
Substance Use Among American Indians and Alaska Natives: Incorporating Culture in an “Indigenist” Stress-Coping Paradigm
This article proposes a new stress-coping model for American Indians and Alaska Natives (AIs) that reflects a paradigmatic shift in the conceptualization of Native health. It reviews sociodemographic information on AIs, rates of substance abuse and related health outcomes, and the research supporting the model’s pathways.