Family Communication (Re)Awakening Indigenous Resilience, Wellness, and Transcendence

Abstract

In this chapter, we review findings related to family communication as a key component of Indigenous family resilience. We summarize findings from mixed-methods ethnographic research with two U.S. southeastern tribes. We use the Framework of Historical Oppression, Resilience, and Transcendence, a theoretical framework developed with these two tribes, to explain how historical oppression has disrupted Indigenous family communication and interpret findings related to family communication as a component of family resilience in contemporary Indigenous families. This chapter offers empirical evidence of the patterns and styles of healthy communication within Indigenous families as well as additional factors that may promote family resilience. We summarize quantitative results indicating that higher community and social support, relationship quality, and life satisfaction were associated with greater family resilience. Open communication practices are a strong component of family resilience, promoting healthy Indigenous families. Promotive factors at the community (social and community support), relational (relationship quality), and individual (life satisfaction) levels positively contribute to Indigenous family resilience. Clinical programs providing practical tools to foster healthy communication—both about difficult and positive topics—are promising avenues to foster resilience.