Juvenile delinquency in American Indian youths: historical and cultural factors.

This paper addresses health aspects of juvenile delinquency in American Indian youths. Comorbid conditions such as substance abuse and depression often complicate diagnosis and treatment. A survey of the literature and an examination of cultural, family, and school issues that influence the presentation and management of conduct problems in Native American youths are included. Cases are presented to emphasize the importance of cultural sensitivity in clinical assessment and intervention.