Native Americans and Apache Heritage

A brief history of the Native American group

15^th century – the arrival of European colonizers
Continuous violent conflicts with the colonizers
August 1, 1758 – first Indian reservation established
Diseases such as smallpox and measles
Slavery forced relocation to spark further conflicts
1911 onwards – continuous non-violent efforts for equality (“Native American timeline of events,” n.d.)

A brief history of the Apache Heritage group

Indigenous people of Alaska, Canada, Southwest US
The nomadic lifestyle, regular relocation, and travel
From the 1730s – conflict with the Spaniards
1743 – offered land in Texas
Raids and slaughters until the mid-20^th century
Few thousands survived by the late 20^th century (“Apache Indians,” n.d.)

Values of the Native American group

Spirituality affects beliefs and choices.
Traditions and heritage perceived as important
Respect for elders and nature
Patience and orientation to present
Respect individual traits and differences
Culture of mutualism and solidarity (“Traditional Native American values and behaviors,” n.d.)

Values of the Apache Heritage group

Similar to Native American values
History and heritage of the predecessors
Solidarity and unity against difficulties
Spirituality and traditions guide their lives
Respect for elders in family/community
Closeness and blood ties are important (Mescalero Apache tribe, 2017)

The worldview of the culture

Respect for nature and its resources
Mutualism and closeness within communities
Importance of history and traditions
Continuous efforts against discrimination and stereotyping
Language and expressive culture are important
Appreciation of differences and individuality

Language and communication patterns: Native American

Language heritage depends on the tribe
Multiple languages and dialects exist
Silence is valued more than talk
A respectful and mindful approach to communication
Vocabulary closely tied to the original location
Different communication schemes among tribes

Language and communication patterns: Apache Heritage

5 different Apachean languages
All languages, either endangered or extinct
Different pronunciation and inscription within the group
Characterized by limited vocabulary/sound variety
Follows language patterns of the native group
Variety of accents and tones

Art and other expressive forms of the cultural Group

Creativity was highly inspired by spirituality
Appreciation of nature among major themes
Paintings (sand paintings, leather designs)
Art depended on natural resources available
Pottery provided access to clay
Basketry/wood carving in most tribes (“Native American art,” n.d.)

Art and other expressive forms of the socio-cultural group

Nomad tribe, shaped by constant travel
Mostly dresses, ceremonies, and dance
Art used to celebrate tradition/history.
Dance and songs using elaborate costumes
Techniques and styles passed between generations.
Puberty Rite Ceremony considered important (Mescalero Apache tribe, 2017)

Norms and rules

It is highly dependent on the specific tribe.
A great variation of norms across tribes
Openwork ethic, nonmaterialistic orientation
Respect for nature and resources
Patience and humbleness are crucial.
Hasty or aggressive behavior is criticized (“Traditional Native American values and behaviors,” n.d.)

Lifestyle characteristics

Live a humble lifestyle, avoid large cities.
Small communities to ensure closeness
Comfortable with just the basic necessities
Respect resources and the environment
Affectionate, supportive communities and families
High levels of social unity (“Traditional Native American values and behaviors,” n.d.)

Relationship patterns

Respect for the elderly people
The experience passed on from elders to youths.
Affective rather than verbal communication
Strong social support within the community
People share similar values and beliefs.
Mutual respect and support in relationship

Common rituals

Rituals and traditions depend on the tribe
Death ceremonies are part of spiritual tradition.
Green Corn Ceremonies in most tribes
Puberty rituals in nomad tribes
Healing rituals common in all tribes
The Ghost Dance – a symbol of hope

Degree of assimilation from mainstream society

Forced assimilation by the government
The General Allotment Act of 1887
Forced adoption of European values/lifestyle
Caused the strengthening of indigenous identity
Assimilation through education (boarding schools)
Preservation of cultural and linguistic identity

Degree of marginalization from mainstream society

Persistent racism against Native Americans
Past history of conflict and marginalization
Cautious behavior towards other communities
Social/economic injustice contribute to the marginalization
Native American rights efforts and movements
The decline of cultural identity in youths

Health behaviors and practices

A disproportionate burden of certain diseases
High-risk behaviors prevalent throughout the group
Widespread tobacco smoking and physical inactivity
Unhealthy nutritional choices leading to obesity
Low fruit and vegetable consumption
Impaired health-seeking behavior, e.g., cancer screening (Cobb, Espey, King, 2014)

Differential approaches needed by health care professionals for each group

Promote health-seeking behaviors within the group
Ensure culturally appropriate care (transcultural nursing)
Promote knowledge of healthy behaviors
Adapt interventions for the specific group
Ensure further research of health behaviors/interventions
Strengthen primary prevention in indigenous communities (Cobb et al., 2014).

References

Apache Indians. (n.d.).

Cobb, N., Espey, D., & King, J. (2014). Health behaviors and risk factors among American Indians and Alaska Natives, 2000–2010. Journal Information, 104(3), 481-489.

Mescalero Apache Tribe. (2017). Our culture.

Native American art. (n.d.).

Native American timeline of events. (n.d.).

Traditional Native American values and behaviors. (n.d.). Web.

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