A Qualitative Model of Long-Term Recovery for American Indian Women

Abstract

SUMMARY A developmental model of Indian women's long-term recovery is proposed based on American Indian thought about health and healing and life histories of six urban Indian women in recovery for three to 12 years. The qualitative analysis identified four components of the recovery process including positive discontinuity, expanding the circle, reclaiming the mother, and developing new continuity. These components are supported by narrative analysis from the lives of a Yakama woman (Washington Plateau), a Nez Perce woman (Idaho), two Black-feet women (Montana), and two Ojibway women (North Dakota).