Colonialities of Well-Being: Karajá and Javaé Indigenous and Non-Indigenous Perspectives

Abstract

This study analyzes conceptions of well-being among Karajá and Javaé Indigenous men and women and non-Indigenous individuals in the Brazilian Midwest, examining how gender influences these perceptions. Grounded in decolonial approaches and critical perspectives on the dominance of WEIRD well-being models, six focus groups and a validation session were conducted with Indigenous university students at the Universidade Federal de Goiás Intercultural Education course and non-Indigenous adults. Participants responded to three guiding questions, and data were analyzed using word clouds and semantic networks. Findings indicate that interpersonal and family relationships are central to well-being across all groups. However, Indigenous participants emphasized community life, cultural traditions, and spirituality, whereas non-Indigenous groups highlight self-care, personal achievements, and emotional stability. Gender analysis showed distinct social roles, particularly among Indigenous women, whose well-being is deeply connected to family and community ties. The contrasts observed underscore the need to integrate plural epistemologies and cultural contexts in the understanding of well-being. This study contributes to a more critical, inclusive, and context-sensitive Positive Psychology, moving beyond universalist assumptions and embracing the diversity of life experiences and values.

Keywords:
Well-being; Indigenous people; Decoloniality; Gender