Previous research has yet to examine attitudes towards mental health treatment options in Alaska Natives. This study seeks to further our understanding of the attitudes that Alaska Natives hold toward seeking professional psychological help. Specifically, in this study variables previously found to predict attitudes and intentions in other ethnic groups (locus of control, social support, public and self-stigma, psychological distress, and acculturation) were tested as potential predictors of attitudes and intentions in a sample of Alaska Native university students (n=30). Regression analyses demonstrated that attitudes did not predict intentions in this group. However, the predictor variables accounted for 63% of the variance in intentions and 66% of the variance in attitudes towards seeking psychological help. This study contributes to the literature in hope of providing services and interventions that suit the values, beliefs, and preferences of Alaska Native people.

Building a foundation. Gathering wood. Overcoming limits. It's all about building a dream, and Fran Kelso tells how in Alaskan Attitudes, her personal memoir about living alone on the Alaskan homestead. Kelso had always wanted to build a home and live on Spruce Island, Alaska. But when it's time to start building, her husband announces he wants a separation. Facing the end of her marriage and possibly the end of her dream, she decides to go on with the help of friends and moves forward with her plan-alone. Taking a leap of faith is harder than Kelso imagined, however. She moves into a home with only a three-burner Coleman stove for cooking, and no electricity, phone, or running water. A boat serves as her primary means of transportation. Her time alone teaches her persistence, determination, and a willingness to do the hard work required. Most importantly, she learns to believe in herself. In the hopes of setting a road map for others to follow in her footsteps, Kelso shares how she achieved her dream in this inspirational guidebook that demonstrates how having the right attitude can get you through life.

Making up more than ten percent of Alaska's population, Native Alaskans are the state's largest minority group. Yet most non-Native Alaskans know surprisingly little about the histories and cultures of their indigenous neighbors, or about the important issues they face. This concise book compiles frequently asked questions and provides informative and accessible responses that shed light on some common misconceptions. With responses composed by scholars within the represented communities and reviewed by a panel of experts, this easy-to-read compendium aims to facilitate a deeper exploration and richer discussion of the complex and compelling issues that are part of Alaska Native life today.