American Indian Views About Family Cohesion and Flexibility

Abstract

This qualitative study examined the views American Indian people hold regarding family structure. American Indians who identified as members of traditional southeastern tribes regarding family views and the impact of traditional practices, with members of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, Seminole, and Yuchi tribes being represented. After conducting interviews with participants, data was analyzed for themes reflecting attitudes toward family. The study identified “Ritual and Family” as a primary connecting theme, with five sub-themes tied together by this over-arching theme through the use of both individual and family interviews.