Exploring Indigenous Language and Psychological Health Among Kickapoo Tribe Bilingual Individuals

Abstract

Participants in this study were eight bilingual Kiiweekaapaa (Kickapoo) Tribal members. Coders independently reviewed the interview transcripts using a micro analytic perspective and grounded theory methodology to identify concepts that represent participant responses. The identified themes included language fluency, translation concerns, culture, historical trauma, acculturative stress, and hope. The participants provide the field with a deeper understanding of the perceptions held by Kickapoo Tribal bilingual individuals regarding knowledge of their Tribal language and psychological wellness.