This research explores the experiences of six Aboriginal counsellors who provide services
to Aboriginal families affected by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. The focus of this research is on the
experience and skill which First Nations counsellors employ with Aboriginal families affected by
the disease. As well, literature on Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and counsellors' prevention and
intervention strategies are explored. The current F.A.S. literature and Canadian Aboriginal
history explored in the literature review roots the counsellors' present day experiences in the
"Constructions" chapter.
Within this qualitative research project, transcribed in-depth interviews of six Aboriginal
counsellors' experiential knowledge were explored through the use of narrative analysis
techniques. Analysis of the data revealed various themes. The themes indicated that Aboriginal
counsellors' concerns regarding F.A.S. included: Aboriginal identity (for themselves and their
clients); counselling work issues; as well as acknowledgement of the strengths and weaknesses in
agencies and professional practice that currently influence Aboriginal families affected by F.A.S.
There was also a theme regarding emotions and feelings running throughout all the interviews.
The themes reveal that the experience and perspective of Aboriginal counsellors is unique and
valuable. The thesis concludes with recommendations about treatment offered to families
affected by Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. / Arts, Faculty of / Social Work, School of / Graduate
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:UBC/oai:circle.library.ubc.ca:2429/5980 |
| Date | 05 1900 |
| Creators | Robert, Renee |
| Source Sets | University of British Columbia |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Text, Thesis/Dissertation |
| Format | 7638031 bytes, application/pdf |
| Rights | For non-commercial purposes only, such as research, private study and education. Additional conditions apply, see Terms of Use https://open.library.ubc.ca/terms_of_use. |
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