Indigenous standpoint theory as a theoretical framework for decolonizing social science health research with American Indian communities

Genevieve R. Cox, Paula FireMoon, Michael P. Anastario, Adriann Ricker, Ramey Escarcega-Growing Thunder, Julie A. Baldwin, Elizabeth Rink

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

10 Scopus citations

Abstract

Theoretical frameworks rooted in Western knowledge claims utilized for public health research in the social sciences are not inclusive of American Indian communities. Developed by Indigenous researchers, Indigenous standpoint theory builds from and moves beyond Western theoretical frameworks. We argue that using Indigenous standpoint theory in partnership with American Indian communities works to decolonize research related to American Indian health in the social sciences and combats the effects of colonization in three ways. First, Indigenous standpoint theory aids in interpreting how the intersections unique to American Indians including the effects of colonization, tribal and other identities, and cultural context are linked to structural inequalities for American Indian communities. Second, Indigenous standpoint theory integrates Indigenous ways of knowing with Western research orientations and methodologies in a collaborative process that works to decolonize social science research for American Indians. Third, Indigenous standpoint theory promotes direct application of research benefits to American Indian communities.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)460-468
Number of pages9
JournalAlterNative
Volume17
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2021

Keywords

  • American Indian health
  • Indigenous standpoint theory
  • colonial knowledge claims
  • decolonizing methodologies
  • intersectionality

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Cultural Studies
  • Anthropology
  • History

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