The Round House Psychology

In the novel “The Round House '' Erdrich displays a narrative that denounces how Native communities face many hardships due to lack of outside support. Erdrich expresses these ideas through innumerable characters throughout the novel. The acts of the novel are sparked by the horrific rape of Geraldine, a Chippewa woman. This event heavily implicates others around Geraldine including her family. Both psychological and historical lenses can be used to analyze “The Round House.” Psychology is presented because of how the assault affected Joe's general health and mental state. Erdrich argues the deficiency of community care in reservations through the experiences she exhibits in the novel. Although others may believe that Native Americans face

This can be rooted due to past trauma and treatment issues. The idea of using substances to try to hide from the pain that is being inflicted. The American Addiction Centers asserts that “the rate of substance dependence or abuse is higher among Native Americans than any other population group in the country. Native Americans have the highest methamphetamine abuse rates, including past month use at more than 3 times the rate of than any other group,” (America Addiction Center). This can be rooted from past cultural factors. Sadly, due to transportation challenges, a lack of health insurance, poverty, and a lack of effective treatment choices in their areas, many Native Americans have limited access to substance misuse treatments. The America Addiction Center also states “Studies have shown that cultural identity and spirituality are important issues for Native Americans seeking help for substance abuse, and these individuals may experience better outcomes when traditional healing approaches (such as powwows, drum circles, and sweat lodges) are incorporated into treatment programs,” (American Addiction Center 9). Its important spirituality is spread throughout the communities, and accepted from all outsiders. Native spirituality is not a religion, unlike the majority of the religions that European Americans learned while growing up. It is a way of thinking about how people should interact with one another, the environment, and the planet. It cannot be learned or practiced without knowledge of Native culture and history because it is an integral element of Native culture. Having a better understanding of the way of Native cultures help provide a basis of perception, and empathy. Erdrich uncovers the many difficulties of substance abuse in her novel. She expresses the main character Joe, and his teenage friends as victims of substance abuse. A quote from the novel reads “I