Description
Because of the drunken Indian stereotype and other myths often associated with American Indians, it is important to critically examine the scientific evidence that best defines the characteristics of alcohol use and abuse among American Indians of particular tribes and in specific communities. Important questions which need to be addressed include: is alcohol use and abuse a major problem among Indians, do they possess a diffferent biological ability to process alcohol, what is the prevalence of drinking, what are the common drinking styles practiced, is Fetal Alcohol Syndrome a problem among Indians, and are Indian drinking and the consequences of drinking unique or are they a special case of drinking behavior which can be understood in the context of drinking behavior manifest in other groups and societies? Numerous studies, examples and data from a number of tribes throughout the United States and Canada are presented to explore these questions. Many people find the evidence rather surprising when considered in an open and objective forum. The presenter has lived, worked, and consulted on these issues with over fifty tribes and also with other constituencies over the past three decades.
