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Review
. 2022 Feb;58(1):8-32.
doi: 10.1080/10376178.2021.2015414. Epub 2022 Jan 4.

Strategies for culturally safe research with Native American communities: an integrative review

Teresa N Brockie  1 , Kyle Hill  2 , Patricia M Davidson  1 , Ellie Decker  1 , Lydia Koh Krienke  1 , Katie E Nelson  1 , Natalie Nicholson  1 , Alicia M Werk  3 , Deborah Wilson  1 , Deana Around Him  4
Affiliations
Review

Strategies for culturally safe research with Native American communities: an integrative review

Teresa N Brockie et al. Contemp Nurse. 2022 Feb.

Abstract

Background: A history of unethical research and deficit-based paradigms have contributed to profound mistrust of research among Native Americans, serving as an important call to action. Lack of cultural safety in research with Native Americans limits integration of cultural and contextual knowledge that is valuable for understanding challenges and making progress toward sustainable change. Aim: To identify strategies for promoting cultural safety, accountability, and sustainability in research with Native American communities. Method: Using an integrative review approach, three distinct processes were carried out: (1) appraisal of peer-reviewed literature (Scopus, PubMed, and ProQuest), (2) review of grey literature (e.g. policy documents and guidelines), and (3) synthesis of recommendations for promoting cultural safety. Results: A total of 378 articles were screened for inclusion, with 55 peer-reviewed and grey literature articles extracted for full review. Recommendations from included articles were synthesised into strategies aligned with eight thematic areas for improving cultural safety in research with Native American communities. Conclusions: Research aiming to understand, respect, and acknowledge tribal sovereignty, address historical trauma, and endorse Indigenous methods is essential. Culturally appropriate, community-based and -engaged research collaborations with Native American communities can signal a reparative effort, re-establish trust, and inform pragmatic solutions. Rigorous research led by Native American people is critical to address common and complex health challenges faced by Native American communities. Impact statement: Respect and rigorous methods ensure cultural safety, accountability, and sustainability in research with Native Americans.

Keywords: Native American; best practices; community-based research; culturally safe research; ethics; integrative review.

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Conflict of interest statement

Disclaimer statements

Conflicts of interest: The authors have no conflicts of interest to report.

Figures

Figure 1.
Figure 1.
Adapted PRISMA diagram for peer-reviewed and grey literature.
Figure 2.
Figure 2.
Guiding principles from FNIGC’s First Nations data governance strategic framework.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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