TY  - JOUR
PY  - 2023//
TI  - Recommendations for systemic change to support connectedness within Alaska Native child welfare
JO  - Child abuse and neglect
A1  - Ullrich, Jessica Saniguq
A1  - Metivier, Amanda
SP  - ePub
EP  - ePub
VL  - ePub
IS  - ePub
N2  - BACKGROUND: Ongoing child removal of Indigenous children within child welfare systems is problematic. Alaska Native youth are disproportionately affected by the trauma of separation from important connectedness relationships. <br><br>OBJECTIVE: To take previous research a step further by identifying relational and systemic changes that need to happen in the Alaska child welfare system so that connectedness is supported for child and collective wellbeing. <br><br>METHODS: This article summarizes connectedness concepts and directly links knowledge bearers' stories to recommended changes at the direct, agency, and governmental practice levels. <br><br>RESULTS: Children and youth need to build, maintain, and repair connectedness relationships, especially when child welfare is involved. Authentically engaging youth and listening to lived experience as a relational action can lead to transformational changes that benefit the children and the collective network they are connected to. <br><br>CONCLUSION: Our intention is to shift child welfare to a child wellbeing paradigm that is relationally guided by direct recipients of the system.<p />  <p>Language: en</p>
LA  - en
SN  - 0145-2134
UR  - http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106332
ID  - ref1
ER  -