Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
Vol. 48 No. 7 July 2010
By Brenda L. Green, MSc, BSc
ABSTRACT
This article presents an overview of culture is treatment, by recognizing the impact that culture has on treatment along with the specific rituals, customs, and meanings related to healing. Attention must be given to the Aboriginal heritage, including various concepts of metaphysics, spirituality, medicines, government, oral history, and language. A pedagogical underpinning of illness and healing is better cared for through cultural messaging and learning that is related to the complex historical legacy of Aboriginal societies, and therefore, culture provides important diverse contributions to current treatment and wellness programs.
AUTHOR
Ms. Green is Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator, Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan, First Nations University of Canada, Community Development and Health Sciences, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Canada.
The author discloses that she has no significant financial interests in any product or class of products discussed directly or indirectly in this activity, including research support.
Address correspondence to Brenda L. Green, MSc, BSc, Assistant Professor and Clinical Coordinator, Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan, First Nations University of Canada, Community Development and Health Sciences, 1301 Central Avenue, Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Canada S6V 4W1; e-mail: bgreen@firstnationsuniversity.ca.
Received: September 8, 2009
Accepted: February 16, 2010
Posted: May 21, 2010
doi:10.3928/02793695-20100504-04
