In the Nyitting Time: The Journey of Identity Development for Western Australian Aboriginal Children and Youth and the Interplay of Racism

Abstract

In Australia, there is a small, yet growing body of empirical research about Aboriginal children and youth’s Aboriginal identity. Current literature is focussed on Aboriginal adults, particularly the “Stolen Generation” who were forcibly removed from their families as children. Aboriginal identity is transmitted from Elder to parent to child, and in the case of Australian Aboriginal families, particularly those residing in urban spaces, the generational gap caused by the Australian government’s White Australia policy has impacted heavily on cultural transmission. Therefore, this chapter will firstly present Western Australian Aboriginal children and young people’s perspectives of their Aboriginal identity. Second, a description of the daily impact of prejudice, racism and discrimination upon identity and wellbeing will be provided. Third, the elements of Aboriginal identity that protects a child’s development and wellbeing will be explored. A meta-analysis of current literature will be conducted by searching the following key terms: Aboriginal identity, self-esteem, racism, child development, and wellbeing. A thematic analysis using Colaizzi’s (1978) methods will be performed.