Emptying the Cup: Healing Fragmented Identity: An Anishinawbekwe Perspective on Historical Trauma and Culturally Appropriate Consultation
S. Amy Desjarlais, MA
Volume 11, Number 1 (2012) 11 (1): 43-96
Keywords Historical Trauma, Cultural Constitution, Indigenous Practices, Anishinawbeg, Heuristic Method, Seven Grandfather Teachings, Colonialism, Enmeshment, Culturally Appropriate Consultation, Trauma Prevention, Impact of Trauma on Identity Formation, Interplay of Cultural and Psychological Factors
Abstract
This article, Emptying the Cup: Healing Fragmented Identity, explores Anishinawbeg perspectives on historical trauma and the vital role of spiritual practices, culture, and ceremony in trauma prevention and healing. Using the heuristic method, the article advocates for culturally appropriate consultation models that empower Indigenous communities. It critically analyzes existing consultation literature through an Indigenous lens to better address the impacts of colonization, personal choice, and respect on both individuals and communities. The piece emphasizes the interplay of cultural and psychological factors in identity formation and highlights the importance of the Seven Grandfather Teachings in healing fragmented identity. Overall, this works aims to enhance trauma prevention strategies at the community level by grounding them in Anishinawbeg cultural values and lived experiences.
S. Amy Desjarlais, MA
Published June 1, 2012
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.
Copyright (c) 2025 S. Amy Desjarlais, MA (Author)
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