A cosmological and psychological portrayal: An integration of psyche, culture, and creativity

Carl Jung was one of the first therapists to propose that the symbolism produced by his patients and symbolism found in varying world cosmologies had commonalties. These universal symbolic elements have been shown to correspond to the cosmic archetypes found throughout worldwide cultures and are often demonstrated through ritual, imagery, and the creative arts.; This dissertation is a phenomenologically based discourse using a hermeneutic method to explore the impressions of the culturally relevant creative arts with Native American Indians who demonstrate significant at-risk behavior. Past programs that focused on pathology and symptomatology have not been effective in ameliorating the tragic legacy of the American Indian. Despite what appears to be much investment of money, time, personnel, and programs, Native American Indians still suffer from some of the highest rates of at-risk behavior, to include suicide, domestic violence, accidents, ill-health, and poverty in our country. The focus has for too long not served the needs or worldviews of Native Americans.; This author believes that risky behavior, which has been part of the Native legacy, is a mask that has been used in attempt to cover and at times to soothe the incredible soul wound that has been oozing for generations. The medicine for such a wound has been sought through the ways of Western medicine. This, however, is not the only source of healing. There is within the ancient psyche of Native America an extremely strong cultural heritage. By integrating this heritage within an application of the analytical psychology of Carl Jung, a powerful collaboration can transpire.; A culturally relevant creative arts program is one means to illustrate the symbolism, imagery, cosmology, poetry, art, and music of a civilization that has thrived on the symbolic languages of the soul. Tribes have within their own structures a wealth of resources that need only to be revived in order for their power to be realized. Besides culturally relevant arts, sweat lodges and talking circles were also implemented, as a means of accessing the wounded psyche and empowering those at risk through culturally relevant experiences.; Utilizing a hermeneutic methodology that cultivates a cross-fertilization of cross-cultural ideologies, authentic visions based on the strengths and not the pathologies of American Indians were established. Culturally specific integration of cross-cultural relationships allowed for empowerment of individual and community resources.; The analytical psychology of Carl Jung opened wide the doors of inquiry, as each culture draws on the symbolic life of their own roots. To Walk In Beauty for the contemporary Native American is to be able to walk not only in two worlds, but also in the all inclusive millennium moccasins. This study has given us a base to work with Native Americans, as well as other cultures that are experiencing transformation, in order to resonate with their more authentic self.