Self-Reliance and Cultural Competence

From the chapter, the selected research study is the theory of self-reliance. The theory was developed by John Lowe and established within the Cherokee cultural values. Specifically, Lowe used the theory to create an understanding of the healthcare system within the Native Indian Americans (Im & Lee, 2023). The theory was first discussed in the original manuscript contained in the book The Self-Reliance of the Cherokee Male Adolescent by John Lowe. 

How is the Theory of Self-reliance Presented in the Manuscript?

Self-reliance theory is illustrated from a cultural perspective, focusing on the significance of discipline, confidence, and responsibility. For the Cherokee, the concept is understood through the interconnection of specific values held by the community (Lowe, 2003). The first value is the need to be responsible. That is, people should be accountable for themselves and others as well. There is a need for respect for the cultural systems and the Creator. The second aspect is discipline, which involves consistently pursuing goals with flexibility and determination (Lowe, 2023). Finally, the theory teaches the need to develop confidence, which comes with a sense of self-worth and a cultural heritage identity. These factors are closely related, implying their critical importance within the culture. Understanding their applications is depicted in a holistic approach and relational circles. 

Concepts Being Studied 

Various concepts are considered when explaining the theory. The first concept is the culture of self-reliance, which explains the need to consider collective harmony within the community rather than seeking individual independence. Self-reliance is used to promote fulfilling roles within families and tribes (Lowe, 2003). Also, there is an important emphasis on the need to adhere to ancestral teachings with keen attention to tradition and respect for elders. Another core concept is upholding discipline and personal responsibility. Adolescents are expected to contribute positively to the community and stay committed to the goals they set consistently. Thirdly, there is an aspect of confidence and identity (Lowe, 2003). Adolescentsneed to develop a mentality of overcoming their challenges by identifying their strengths and nurturing them for sustainable lives. Meanwhile, the community should take pride in their identity as being part of a community and resisting any growing negative influences. Also, the community employs the talking circle intervention where groups employ traditional storytelling means to help them develop self-reliance (Lowe, 2023). The adolescents were expected to learn the critical importance of health from a holistic perspective. That is, health should be viewed through a balance between mental, physical, emotional,and spiritual considerations. From these, cultural practices such as prayers, songs, and dances are used to build discipline and connectedness as part of a self-reliant community. 

How the Findings Guide Practice?

The research findings establish the critical role of interventions based on cultural understandings in building self-reliance, especially in controlling substance abuse. Firstly, the Cherokee Talking Circle was a critical tool in promoting storytelling which builds self-reliance (Lowe, 2003). Through the sharing process, the community could easily manage their stresses and minimize the chances of substance abuse among adolescents. The second aspect is the nursing practice. Through the talking circle, there is a possibility of engaging each other more respectfully. The process can easily integrate cultural values into healthcare, hence providing a model for understanding how healthcare can integrate cultural competence into its practices (Lowe, 2003). The model provides the basis for engaging diverse populations. Finally, the findings provide guidance in global relevance, especially in understanding indigenous groups. There is a chance of collaboration with diverse communities globally, indicating the wide application of self-reliance through a collective community understanding. 

References

Im, E., & Lee, Y. (2023). Theory of transitions. In Springer eBooks. https://doi.org/10.1891/9780826139276.0013

Lowe, J. (2003). The Self-Reliance of the Cherokee male adolescent. Journal of Addictions Nursing, 14(4), 209–214. https://doi.org/10.1080/jan.14.4.209.214

Lowe, J. R. (2023). Theory of Self-Reliance. In Springer eBooks. https://doi.org/10.1891/9780826139276.0014