1. Objectifs

Intentions :
« In the following paper, we [...] examine the ways in which individual health may be influenced by virtue of their social embeddedness. » (p. 425)

2. Méthode

Échantillon/Matériau :
« This paper draws from narrative analysis of interviews with a national group of 26 First Nation and Inuit Community Health Representatives (CHRs), which occurred in 2005 [in all provinces of Canada]. » (p. 425)

Instruments:
Guide d’entretien semi-directif

Type de traitement des données :
Analyse de contenu

3. Résumé

« Within the Aboriginal health literature, there has been little critical analysis of the means through which social ties influence health at the individual, family and community levels. First Nation and Inuit communities are highly integrated places and the social structures of these communities are often quite complex, mainly because community members are so interconnected through family, work and politics, among other social structures. The results of our analysis suggest it is through the normalization of negative health behaviours by family, friends and greater community that poor health is proliferated in the community contexts of the First Nation and Inuit CHRs [Community Health Representatives] who participated in this study. The poor material circumstances that tend to characterize these communities add yet another layer of complexity to this relationship, as it significantly reduces the autonomy of individuals to make choices that run counter to prevailing norms. In this context, opportunities for change may be stifled as individuals are bound by limited income and dependence on family and/or community resources. Research, policy and interventions must therefore pay close attention to the social context within which health behaviours and material circumstances interact to influence health outcomes among First Nation and Inuit communities. » (p. 1432)