Even though a disproportionate number of American Indians serve time in Federal Bureau of Prisons institutions, many mental health professionals do not consider the differences between the dominant culture and Indian culture when treating Indian prisoners. Differences in sense of time, use of eye contact, body language, and verbal expression, if not understood, can result in seriously skewed health histories and mental status examinations. It is important that those providing psychiatric care to Indian prisoners realize that the way of life that once promoted good mental health among Indians has broken down. When treating Indian patients, ways must be found to use family and tribal relationships to effectuate and supplement therapy. 24 references.