Enculturation and Posttraumatic Growth Factors in Native Americans

Research suggests that traditional beliefs and practices promote a more rapid recovery from trauma and are preventative of disorders among Native Americans. This research was viewed through the lens of resilience theory, well-being theory, thrive theory, and adversarial growth theory. A mixed-method approach was used to examine the relationship between level of enculturation and resilience and posttraumatic growth (PTG) in Native American people in a northern Midwest state. A convenience sample of 86 adults Native Americans participated. The Native American Acculturation Scale, American Indian Enculturation Scale, and the Posttraumatic Growth Inventory were used in the quantitative portion of the study to measure the levels of enculturation and PTG. The 37 individuals who scored in the upper and lower 10% of levels of posttraumatic growth, then participated in interviews that focused on the good life, resilience or posttraumatic growth factors, and definitions of posttraumatic growth and resilience. Indigenous informants confirmed cultural relevance of the scales and interpretations from interviews and to assure that no themes were missed. Quantitative analysis showed statistically significant correlations between level of enculturation and posttraumatic growth. Interviews revealed that traditional values and practices encouraged higher PTG, resilience, and living a good life. Some cultural nuances appeared in the definitions given by participants in interview. Results clearly support Native Americans' own cultural wisdom in addressing their own well-being. In order to support social change, findings should encourage researchers, clinicians, and policy-makers to explore further indigenous values and ways as mechanisms in cultural and personal growth and resilience.