The Circle of Courage

“The Circle of Courage is a model of positive youth development first described in the book Reclaiming Youth at Risk,
co-authored by Larry Brendtro, Martin Brokenleg, and Steve Van Bockern.
The model integrates Native American philosophies of child-rearing, the
heritage of early pioneers in education and youth work, and
contemporary resilience research.



The Circle of Courage is based in four universal growth needs of all children: belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity.


These traditional values are validated by contemporary child research
and are consistent with the findings of Stanley Coopersmith who
identified four foundations for self-worth: significance, competence,
power, and virtue.



These are summarized below:




Belonging

In Native American and First Nations cultures, significance was nurtured
in communities of belonging. Lakota anthropologist Ella Deloria
described the core value of belonging in these simple words: “Be
related, somehow, to everyone you know.” Treating others as kin forges
powerful social bonds that draw all into relationships of respect.
Theologian Marty observed that throughout history the tribe, not the
nuclear family, always ensured the

survival of the culture. Even if parents died or were not responsible,
the tribe was always there to nourish the next generation.




Mastery

Competence in traditional cultures is ensured by guaranteed
opportunity for mastery. Children were taught to carefully observe and
listen to those with more experience. A person with greater ability was
seen as a model for learning, not as a rival. Each person strives for
mastery for personal growth, but not to be superior to someone else.
Humans have an innate drive to become competent and solve problems. With
success in surmounting challenges, the desire to achieve is
strengthened.




Independence

Power in Western culture was based on dominance, but in tribal
traditions it meant respecting the right for independence. In contrast
to obedience models of discipline, Native teaching was designed to build
respect and teach inner discipline. From earliest childhood, children
were encouraged to make decisions, solve problems, and show personal
responsibility. Adults modeled, nurtured, taught values, and gave
feedback, but children were given abundant opportunities to make choices
without coercion.

Generosity

Finally, virtue was reflected in the pre-eminent value of generosity.
The central goal in Native American child-rearing is to teach the
importance of being generous and unselfish. 

In the words of a Lakota
Elder, “You should be able to give away your most cherished possession
without your heart beating faster.” 

In helping others, youth create
their own proof of worthiness: they make a positive contribution to
another human life.”

All text sources: Reclaiming Youth International & Circle of Courage