Observations on the Yurok: childhood and world image

Erikson, Erik H. (Erik Homburger)

article

Observations on the Yurok: childhood and world image

University of California Press • 35 (10) • Published In 1943 • Pages: i-vii, 257-302

By: Erikson, Erik H. (Erik Homburger).

Abstract
The main point of Erikson's fieldwork, which is reflected in this paper, was to review some of Kroeber's data on the Yurok from the standpoint of analytic child psychology. During a short stay inYurok territory he was able to meet some of Kroeber's informants and gather some data. This material is analyzed in terms of vector psychology and Freudian psychoanalytic theory. Since he assumes a prior knowledge of these theories, the source is rather difficult for the layman to use. There is little new cultural material discussed. He concludes that the configurations he was able to delineate 'seem to express the general idea that by being a good warden of his nutritional system and a good warden of the river, and by guarding strength and wealth, the Yurok is clean enough to perform the miracle of his existence, namely, to eat his salmon and have it next year too.' At the time of writing, Erikson was with the Institute of Child Welfare of the University of California.

Community structure

Shamans and psychotherapists

Spirits and gods

Child care

Magical and mental therapy

HRAF PubDate

2010

Region