Indigenous psychology refers to the study and understanding of psychological processes, behaviors, and phenomena from the perspective of Indigenous peoples and their cultural contexts. It encompasses the unique worldviews, values, traditions, and ways of knowing of Indigenous cultures and seeks to decolonize and indigenize mainstream psychology by incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems and perspectives.

Key aspects of Indigenous psychology include:

1. Cultural Knowledge and Traditions: Indigenous psychology values and respects Indigenous cultural knowledge, traditions, and practices as sources of wisdom and understanding of human behavior and well-being. It recognizes the importance of cultural identity, spirituality, connection to land, and communal relationships in shaping Indigenous individuals’ psychological experiences.
2. Holistic View of Health and Well-being: Indigenous psychology adopts a holistic perspective on health and well-being that encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. It recognizes the interconnectedness of individuals with their families, communities, and environments and emphasizes the importance of balance, harmony, and reciprocity in promoting health and healing.
3. Cultural Competence and Cultural Safety: Indigenous psychology promotes cultural competence among psychologists and other mental health professionals by fostering awareness, understanding, and respect for Indigenous cultures, histories, and worldviews. It emphasizes the importance of providing culturally safe and respectful services that are responsive to the needs and preferences of Indigenous clients.
4. Community-Based Approaches: Indigenous psychology values community-based approaches to research, intervention, and healing that prioritize the participation and collaboration of Indigenous communities and stakeholders. It recognizes the importance of community voices, knowledge, and priorities in shaping research agendas, interventions, and policies that address Indigenous mental health needs and concerns.
5. Decolonization and Empowerment: Indigenous psychology seeks to decolonize psychology by challenging colonial legacies, power dynamics, and Eurocentric biases within the discipline. It advocates for Indigenous self-determination, sovereignty, and empowerment in research, education, and practice and supports efforts to reclaim Indigenous ways of knowing, healing, and being.
6. Cultural Resilience and Strengths-Based Approaches: Indigenous psychology acknowledges the resilience, strengths, and adaptive strategies inherent in Indigenous cultures and communities. It emphasizes strengths-based approaches to mental health and well-being that build on Indigenous cultural values, practices, and strengths to promote healing, resilience, and empowerment.
7. Intersectionality and Social Justice: Indigenous psychology recognizes the intersectionality of Indigenous identities and experiences with other forms of marginalization and oppression, such as racism, colonialism, poverty, and discrimination. It advocates for social justice, equity, and Indigenous rights by addressing systemic barriers and promoting culturally responsive policies and practices that uphold Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination.

Overall, Indigenous psychology offers a culturally relevant and respectful approach to understanding and addressing the psychological needs and experiences of Indigenous peoples. It contributes to the decolonization of psychology, the promotion of Indigenous well-being, and the empowerment of Indigenous communities to reclaim their cultural identities, knowledge, and healing practices.