Two behavioral biologists are hoping to enlist local Natives in a study of behavior and group identity.
The study revolves around how people identify with different groups in different contexts and how that affects their interactions with others. The project is hosted by Sealaska Heritage Institute and funded by National Science Foundation.
Researcher Caitlin Stern, who grew up in Haines and works for the nonprofit Santa Fe Institute, is conducting the study with Dr. Jessie Barker of Denmark’s Arhus Institute of Advanced Studies.
The idea for the project arose from Barker’s previous work with groups in lab settings. The aim of the study is to see if findings there match up with real-world examples.
Tlingits were chosen for the study because they have different levels of identity, including tribe, clan, family and house, Stern said.
Participants can provide information anonymously on written or online surveys.
The researchers will be in town May 24-June 22. They’ll share preliminary findings before leaving in June and expect to have final results complete by winter.
Participants must be 18 years of age and will be compensated $15 per hour to take part. For more information, email [email protected] or phone 617-417-2469.