The Use of Puppetry for Health Promotion and Suicide Prevention Among Mi'Kmaq Youth

Abstract

Purpose: North American aboriginal youth have been shown to exhibit some of the highest suicide rates in the world. In this article, the authors examine the main factors related to suicide among aboriginal youth and ways to redress what many consider the most important factor. Main Factor: While many factors contribute to suicide plans, the literature would suggest “discontinuity” with heritage to have a particularly negative impact that needs priority redress. Strategy: A group of Mi'Kmaq elders and an interdisciplinary group of academicians blended traditional Mi'Kmaq knowledge and Western Science knowledge to develop a strategy to address such discontinuity. It involved using puppets made from natural forest materials to promote culture, language, and history. This article describes the strategy, its rationale, as well as its relevance for, and application to, holistic nursing.