Learning Objectives: Recognize alternative methods for engaging American Indian youth in tobacco control. Compare mainstream methods with alternatives that work with American Indian youth. Identify three primary motivators that work with American Indian youth.
Abstract: American Indian youth nationwide are experiencing early introduction to tobacco use. There are few methods for refusal that work in an environment where peer pressure, environmental smoke, family practices, and community norms all support tobacco use. An emerging area of health for youth is fitness for life. This concept is taking hold in phys ed programs in some cities of the country. The Family Education Center health program designed by MIGIZI Communications, Inc. is developing tobacco control methods to use with American Indian youth. Beginning with an understanding that even children have become smokers but that there is also a segment of non-smokers among American Indian youth, the program methods were developed to appeal to the cultural and fitness interests of youth. Fitness for life programs emphasize the lifelong desirability of looking and feeling healthy. We introduce pow wow dancing and other cultural activities which challenge the sedentary lifestyles of many youth and demonstrate to them that fitness and culture can be effective knowledge and practice to use in quitting illegal use of tobacco or to use as part of more generalized refusal skills. At the heart of the methods is the effort to engage the young person in his or her own body and strong desire to look attractive. The presentation will include images of youth practicing their skills and a demonstration from an adolescent pow wow dance instructor, aged 14. The presentation will take the participants through a prepared PowerPoint discussion with handouts.
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