Alcohol Problems in Alaska Natives

Abstract

This paper summarizes the literature on alcohol problems in Alaska Natives, briefly summarizing risk and resiliency factors but focusing on Native and Western healing practices. A story (The Red Shoes) is used to illustrate many of the cultural factors that are influencing the role of alcohol in Alaska Native life. Treatment factors explored include both Alaska Native and Western Approaches. The Western approach focused on is Narrative Therapy, which has not yet been applied to Alaska Native populations. Barriers to service delivery are briefly explored, as are suggested ways to overcome such barriers.

Key Words:

• Alaska Natives
• alcoholism
• native healing practices
• narrative therapy