Linking Generations By Strengthening Relationships®

Linking Generations by Strengthening Relationships® is an adaptation of Fatherhood Is Sacred®/Motherhood Is Sacred® (FIS/MIS) designed to help Native Americans strengthen relationships. The program aims to connect fathers, mothers, and families with their Native American heritage and identity by emphasizing their connectedness to past and future generations. The program teaches that these connections ultimately strengthen self-worth and identity and aid in improving relationships with romantic partners, family members, and friends. Individuals who are not Native American are also welcome to participate. 

In Linking Generations by Strengthening Relationships, facilitators lead small group sessions. Facilitators promote a sense of equality, create a supporting environment, and connect fathers and mothers to their heritage and families in a positive way. The facilitator uses storytelling and traditional Native American values to teach session material and encourages fathers and mothers to share their own feelings and experiences.

Linking Generations by Strengthening Relationships content focuses on the three pillars of self-worth, identity, and purpose and emphasizes connections across generations (e.g., ancestors, parents, and future generations). Facilitators embed these pillars throughout 14 individual sessions. Session 1 introduces the program’s purpose and the importance of generational knowledge. Session 2 explains the foundational concepts of FIS/MIS: the Creator, choice, being teachable, wisdom, and service. Session 3 focuses on thoughts, desires, and self-control. Session 4 teaches the power of having a positive attitude, gratitude, and humility. Session 5 teaches the importance of lifelong learning and learning life lessons through experience. Session 6 focuses on self-worth and self-esteem. Session 7 teaches how to improve relationships through kindness, appreciation, and joy. Sessions 8 and 9 discuss how selfishness, emotional immaturity, laziness, blame, and inappropriate online relationships damage relationships. Sessions 10 and 11 teach the concepts of love, nurturing, intimacy, and communication. Session 12 discusses the road to marriage: dating, courtship, choosing a partner, and setting standards. Session 13 explores ending or changing relationships through divorce or loss. Session 14 concludes by summarizing the keys to strong family relationships.

Linking Generations By Strengthening Relationships® does not currently meet criteria to receive a rating because no studies met eligibility criteria for review.

Date Research Evidence Last Reviewed: Mar 2024

Sources

The following sources informed the program or service description, target population, and program or service delivery and implementation information: the program or service manual, and the program or service developer’s website.

This information does not necessarily represent the views of the program or service developers. For more information on how this program or service was reviewed, visit the Review Process page or download the Handbook.