The crisis in indigenous family education is often accompanied by many complex factors, including social changes, the breakdown of family structures, economic income, regional environments, and education, which have resulted in various vulnerabilities in mainstream society.
On September 5th, Rerum Novarum Center organized the Indigenous Youth Counseling Resource Integration and Coordination Conference. We invited Mr. Hsiao and engaged in the construction and discussion of relevant topics. Through the sharing of practical experiences from various units and comprehensive discussions, we explored techniques and approaches in working with indigenous youth and families. We aimed to integrate community resources and encourage free exchange between units regarding strategies and responses to related issues. The speaker discussed the challenges and prospects of indigenous families and youth by addressing some key questions:
- How can we provide psychological support to help them find balance in different environments, maintain their cultural uniqueness, and establish a sense of identity?
- How can community resources offer diverse support to improve family situations, and how can we assist them in utilizing these resources?
- How can we facilitate collaboration between indigenous families and interdisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive support and care for youth?
How can we enhance family recognition of educational resources for youth and foster talent to increase indigenous youth's opportunities for higher education?
During the discussion of these topics, participants also shared their observations from their service experiences.
When serving indigenous families, many face economic challenges, have lower educational levels, and occupy lower socioeconomic statuses. In cases where extended family caregiving is necessary, it can lead to parent-child relationship estrangement. Parents often have to work outside the home, which can neglect their children's psychological well-being and academic development, resulting in many children falling behind in their studies.
On the other hand, we have observed that indigenous youth often struggle with self-identity due to the need to navigate between two different cultures. This adjustment process can lead to internal conflicts or crises in self-identity, causing difficulties in school adaptation.
For social workers working with indigenous youth and families, besides improving family functionality, it is crucial to accompany youth in finding "self-image identity" and a "sense of ethnic identity" within the context of dual cultures. This is an essential aspect of the service process.
Rerum Novarum Center is an organization dedicated to caring for vulnerable individuals in the workplace. We promote after-school care for indigenous youth in tribal and Zhudong areas, assisting in holistic growth, strengthening ethnic identity, and fostering joyful learning. Most importantly, we fill many impoverished hearts and families with love, allowing their lives to turn around and create a hopeful future. We rely on your donation support for our services. Please click 「我要捐款 (Donate Now)」 (online donation) or call (02) 2397-1933 #122. Thank you for your support!"