Issues in research on Aboriginal children and families

• Main Authors: Sébastien Grammond, Christiane Guay
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Centre Urbanisation Culture Société (UCS) de l'INRS 2016-10-01
• Series: Enfances, Familles, Générations
• Subjects: Aboriginal peoples; youth protection; residential schools; culture and identity
• Online Access: http://journals.openedition.org/efg/1227

This article presents a review of the colonial policies that had devastating consequences on Aboriginal children and families, among which residential schools and the enforcement of youth protection regulations. It examines the efforts that have been made in the last forty years to adapt the State institutions that impact children and young Aboriginals. It also gives an overview of the cultural and identity-related issues facing Aboriginal children, youths and families, especially as regards the land, views of the extended family and parenting practices. It follows with considerations on the necessary self-determination of Aboriginal peoples in the fields relevant to childhood and the family.