How Families Survive and Thrive in the American Indian and Alaska Native Community

Seeing the Protective Rainbow: Family Resiliency in Native American Communities

By the Annie E. Casey Foundation,

February 10, 2008

Summary

This brief summarizes a longer paper, American Indian and Alaskan Native Family Resiliency: A Protective Rainbow. The study looks at unique resiliency themes, factors and characteristics that have allowed these peoples to thrive through social and political persecution. The stories show how family strengths support the well-being of individuals, families and, as a result, the community in general.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaway

Keeping ones’ cultural heritage is vital as a resilient protective factor.

Family, clan and extended tribe create an important protective context for individual resilience. in Alaska and Native American populations.

Findings & Stats

Statements & Quotations