NCJ Number
112148
Date Published
1986
Length
282 pages
Annotation
Testimony and prepared statements by representatives of several Indian tribes and from health, criminal justice, welfare, protective, employment, and social services personnel, examine the special problems and needs of Native American children and their families.
Abstract
Witnesses identify problems facing Native Americans including high rates of unemployment, child abuse and neglect (including sexual abuse), alcoholism and substance abuse, family dysfunction, teenage pregnancy, and suicide. Factors contributing to these problems are identified, including loss of funding, insufficient services, the general economic climate, and the breakdown of traditional lifestyles and cultural values. Identified service needs to meet these problems include occupational training and placement, substance abuse education and treatment, health care, and economic development. Other service needs include child welfare services such as child abuse prevention and treatment, group homes and foster care, respite care, and court services. Also needed is a range of services for families including crisis intervention, counseling, and shelter care for victims of family violence. Service providers describe existing programs in these areas. Jurisdictional issues, the work of tribal councils, and special culturally relevant programs are discussed. The work of community boards in providing mediation services also is explained.