The FH Healing Model and Community Defined Evidence Practice (CDEP) Study 2022 – 2025 utilizes a non-experimental study design, measuring variables as they naturally occur through Friendship House programs and services and studied through the lens of tribal and intertribal healing practices. The traditional healing methods for FH CDEP examination during the 3-year study period (October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2025) include Traditional Counsel (Group and Individual) Counseling, Sweat Lodge Ceremony, Talking Circle, Drum Circle, Walking the Red Road, and Cultural Gatherings. In general, the evaluation focus of the FH CDEP is to examine the effectiveness of traditional healing methods on the substance abuse treatment population of AI/AN adults who are residential clients at FH: Does the integration of AI/AN healing practices into service delivery efforts have a positive impact on program recipients’ wellness (mental, spiritual, physical and emotional), social and economic engagement, home stability, and cultural connectedness? The FH CDEP examination includes 2 process questions, 8 outcome questions, and 1 formative evaluation question.
talking circle
Formative Research and Cultural Tailoring of a Substance Abuse Prevention Program for American Indian Youth: Findings from the Intertribal Talking Circle Intervention
ABSTRACT: Substance use among American Indians (AIs) is a critical health issue and accounts for many health problems such as chronic liver disease, cirrhosis, behavioral health conditions, homicide, suicide, and motor vehicle accidents. In 2013, the highest rates of substance use and dependence were seen among AIs when compared to all other population groups, although these rates vary across different tribes. Among AI adolescents, high rates of substance use have been associated with environmental and historical factors, including poverty, historical trauma, bi-cultural stress, and changing tribal/familial roles. Our project, the Intertribal Talking Circle intervention, involved adapting, tailoring, implementing, and evaluating an existing intervention for AI youth of three tribal communities in the United States.