Self-Destructive Behaviour and Family Illness in First Nations/Tribal Communities (IN: Focus Group on Suicide Prevention: Presentations, by Department of Health, Medical Services Branch)

In this presentation, Connors reviews how choosing the civilized society (settling onto large areas of land for long periods of time) path over the tribal society (relatively small, nomadic communities) path has had a negative impact on aboriginal family relationships. Characteristics of healthy families & unhealthy or dysfunctional families are outlined. An extensive discussion of the strengths of tribal families, e.g. providing support, security & encouragement for its members, is included.