A Healing Space: The Experiences of First Nations and Inuit Youth with Equine-Assisted Learning (EAL)

Authors:
DELL Colleen Anne, et al
Journal article citation:
Child and Youth Care Forum, 40(4), August 2011, pp.319-336.
Publisher:
Springer

The potential benefits of an equine-assisted learning (EAL) program offered to Inuit youth who abuse solvents is examined. Fifteen interviews with male and female EAL program participants and 6 staff. It was found that young people’s healing was aided through the availability of a culturally-relevant space; from within an Aboriginal worldview this understanding of space is central to individual and communal well-being. This was conveyed in three key themes that emerged from the data: spiritual exchange, complementary communication, and authentic occurrence. This understanding provides insight into the dynamics of healing for Aboriginal young people who abuse solvents, and may be applicable to other programming and populations.

Subject terms:
indigenous people, substance misuse, therapies, therapy and treatment, cultural identity, animal assisted therapy;
Content type:
research
Location(s):
Canada
Link:
Journal home page
ISSN online:
1573-3319
ISSN print:
1053-1890

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