Illuminating the Lived Experiences of Research with Indigenous Communities

Abstract

The historical exploitation experienced by indigenous people in the United States has left a number of negative legacies, including distrust toward research. This distrust poses a barrier to progress made through culturally sensitive research. Given the complex history of research with indigenous groups, the purpose of this descriptive phenomenological study was to illuminate the lived experiences of both indigenous and non-indigenous researchers conducting culturally competent research with indigenous people. Interviews from 13 social science research experts revealed 6 underlying themes about their research with indigenous people, including respect and commitment, mutual trust, affirmation, harmony among multiple worldviews, responsibility, and spiritual/personal growth.

Keywords:

• research
• indigenous
• phenomenology
• Native American

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to sincerely acknowledge the participants of this study. The cumulative expertise, information, and experiences provided by these researchers made this study possible. The generous time and thoughtfulness afforded by the participants was integral to its successful completion.