Exploring a Strength-Based Approach to Health Research with First Nation Youth
Creators: Lines, Laurie-Ann J. F.
Publisher: name: University of Alberta Library
Year: 2024

<p>Ideally, research approaches to Indigenous health would be holistically balanced, multi- knowledge sourced, and solution- or strength-based. Many researchers recognize the importance of strength-based approaches for effective, empowering, and change-oriented health research with Indigenous populations. Nonetheless, while strength-based approaches have been extensively investigated in the business, psycho-social and education fields, these approaches have not been widely studied as a research approach or in Indigenous health. When strength- based approaches are taken up in Indigenous health research, the descriptors of “strength” are vaguely defined with scant examples of strength-based research in application.<br>
In my dissertation, I filled this literature gap by exploring, designing, and implementing a strength-based health research approach with Indigenous populations in four manuscripts. I utilized an Indigenous methodology grounded in the values, culture, worldview, and ways of being and knowing of my Dene community where I was raised.<br>
In my first manuscript, I explored strength-based approaches in health research and connected researchers’ environments with molding their worldviews and ways of conducting research, which may be inconsistent with non-Western research populations. I recommended critical self-reflection on a researcher’s approach, bias, and worldview and increasing educational opportunities to understanding various epistemological health concepts. One avenue that may appropriately engage non-Western epistemologies and ways of researching is understanding definitions and applications of strength-based approaches.<br>
In exploring, designing, and implementing strength-based research approaches, I drew examples from two health risk communication research projects. The projects were conducted alongside a community partner, the Yellowknives Dene First Nation (YKDFN). <br>
The first project that informed my next two manuscripts involved participatory health risk communication, where youth participants created and delivered messages about wellness and ideas of health. In my second manuscript, I explored youths’ perspectives on health and highlighted potential advantages of research based on strengths. From this project, a research approach localized in YKDFN strengths surfaced. In addition to identifying specific social and structural determinants of health to include in future research design, the youth pinpointed potential roles and agency for youth in future health research and community initiatives. The youth encouraged the use of specific cultural and community strengths to be utilized in future research and to increase positive health outcomes. These developments encouraged subsequent research, explained in my third manuscript, where I co-researched with YKDFN youth to create a 360-degree video illustrating the youths’ perspectives of the YKDFN&#39;s strengths. The strengths focused on sharing lessons about being healthy (health risk communication). Based on this process, youth focused subsequent research on “living a good life” (a YKDFN interpretation of healthy) and I created a four-component framework for a strength-based research approach, corresponding with research activity examples. The four components included (1) identifying strengths; (2) prioritizing and creating descriptions of strengths; (3) refining strengths by gathering contextual examples; and (4) depicting strengths to plan future research. I asserted that utilizing a strength-based approach in research is more than trying new methods or vocabulary – it involves reframing or shifting one’s outlook and readiness to authentically work in partnership based on reciprocity, respect, and trust.<br>
In my fourth manuscript, I connected my strength-based research approach framework with another project (Indigenized Forum Theatre) co-conducted with three First Nations (including the YKDFN). Together, we implemented an Indigenous strength-based approach that shared unique solutions, based on Indigenous worldviews in mental health. We based this approach on relational strengths of the participants, including their relations and communities. Applying an Indigenous strength-based approach assisted in the indigenization of the intervention, and reinforced community resurgence efforts. I recommend an Indigenous strength- based approach to be developed in concert with Indigenous Peoples from the population of interest, who readily identify relevant strengths for the research goals, understand the complexities of relational strengths, and direct implementation appropriately.<br>
Throughout my dissertation, I shared my journey of exploring a strength-based approach, developed and designed its components as a research approach, and provided examples in application. My dissertation offers stimulus for researchers contemplating how to tackle their research, and practical tools and examples for conducting strength-based research. When used appropriately, strength-based approaches hold promise to find new solutions in research, particularly with populations and topics where strengths may be undermined or underutilized. My research provides traction for future strength-based research in Indigenous health, consequently, moving towards more decolonized research.</p>