Proposal Writing: I Don't Want A Summary, You Have To Write

Proposal=Writing (I don't want summary), you have to write a unique proposal not from someone else

The purpose of the Program Proposal is to synthesize what you have learned about the culture-health relationship and apply it by proposing a health promotion intervention that addresses a specific population and health issue, identifying key cultural issues involved and incorporating them in the program design. You have the option of addressing HIV/AIDS, obesity, or youth violence in a specific population (as we do in the class), or of selecting another health issue/population. The paper should be in the following format: Health issue (3 points): Health Issue, target population and epidemiology Population and cultural issues (7 points): Description of affected population, including cultural factors relevant to the impact of the health problem Program (5 points): Proposed program approach and components Incorporation of cultural issues (5 points): Explanation of cultural factors incorporated into program design and rationale for inclusion The paper should be between 5 and 7 pages, double-spaced. Make sure to include citations and references wherever necessary, and format the references in APA style (posted on Blackboard) and listed at the end of the report under the heading of “References”. The references should not be counted in the 5 to 7 page limit.

Paper For Above instruction

The intersection of culture and public health is a critical area of focus for designing effective health promotion programs. Understanding the cultural context of health issues allows practitioners to create interventions that are culturally sensitive, acceptable, and sustainable. For this project, I propose a health promotion intervention targeting youth violence among indigenous populations in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, a pressing public health concern with significant cultural implications.

Health Issue

Youth violence remains a substantial public health challenge, particularly within marginalized communities. According to the CDC (2019), indigenous youth experience higher rates of violence-related injuries and deaths compared to their non-indigenous counterparts. Epidemiological data indicate that in certain regions of the Pacific Northwest, the youth homicide rate among indigenous populations can be as much as twice that of non-indigenous youth (Hansen et al., 2020). Factors contributing to this disparity include intergenerational trauma, socioeconomic disadvantages, and cultural dislocation. Addressing youth violence in this context requires a nuanced understanding of both the epidemiological trends and the cultural dynamics specific to indigenous communities.

Population and Cultural Issues

The target population for this intervention comprises indigenous adolescents aged 12-18 residing in reservations and tribal lands in the Pacific Northwest. Culturally, these communities face unique challenges rooted in historical trauma, loss of language and cultural practices, and systemic marginalization (Yellow Horse Brave Heart, 2017). Traditional values emphasizing community interconnectedness, respect, and spiritual identity are often contrasted with the violence and discord experienced by youth today. Furthermore, mistrust of governmental and external agencies, stemming from historical injustices such as forced assimilation, complicates efforts to implement standard health programs. Recognizing these cultural issues is essential to designing an intervention that resonates with community values and incorporates culturally meaningful practices.

Proposed Program Approach and Components

The proposed health promotion program adopts a community-based participatory approach, involving tribal leaders, elders, youth, and local organizations. The key components include culturally tailored conflict resolution workshops, mentorship programs featuring respected community elders, and integration of traditional activities such as storytelling, craft-making, and spiritual practices. Additionally, mental health support incorporating traditional healing methods, such as sweat lodge ceremonies and spiritual counseling, will be part of the intervention. The program emphasizes skill-building in non-violent conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and resilience, aligning with indigenous values of harmony and community cohesion.

Incorporation of Cultural Issues

Cultural considerations are central to this intervention’s design. The inclusion of elders and community leaders ensures that the program aligns with indigenous ways of knowing and healing. Storytelling and traditional practices serve as culturally relevant mediums for conveying conflict resolution skills and fostering community cohesion. The rationale for incorporating these cultural elements is supported by research indicating that culturally grounded interventions enhance engagement, acceptability, and long-term effectiveness (Kirmayer et al., 2011). Moreover, respecting historical trauma and systemic marginalization by involving the community in decision-making fosters trust and empowerment, crucial for sustainable change.

Conclusion

Addressing youth violence among indigenous populations requires more than conventional intervention strategies; it demands culturally informed approaches that honor the community’s values and experiences. By integrating traditional practices, engaging community elders, and implementing culturally tailored conflict resolution and mental health support, the proposed program aims to reduce violence and promote resilience among indigenous youth. Recognizing the profound influence of cultural factors not only enhances program effectiveness but also contributes to healing historical wounds and strengthening community ties.

References

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2019). Youth Violence: Facts at a Glance. Atlanta, GA: CDC.
• Hansen, D., Kahl, C., & Nelson, T. (2020). Indigenous Youth Violence in the Pacific Northwest: Epidemiology and Cultural Context. Journal of Public Health, 112(4), 560-568.
• Kirmayer, L. J., Brass, G. M., & Tait, C. L. (2011). The Mental Health of Indigenous Peoples: Transformative Research and Practice. Canadian Journal of Psychiatry, 56(12), 720-727.
• Yellow Horse Brave Heart, M. (2017). The Historical Trauma Response Among Dine' (Navajo) and Lakota People. Journal of Indigenous Health, 13(3), 29-43.