Communication patterns and explanatory processes are culturally specific and not often compatible with research data-gathering approaches. Particularly in areas of medical research and health and health-care behavioral research, indigenous educators and researchers note their frustration when Western paradigms, academic traditions, and medical protocols and terminology are forced upon minority populations. Further, Linda Tuhiwai Smith points out that the term "research" is inextricably linked to European imperialism and colonialism. Questioning the Western model of ethical inquiry, Norman Denzin points out that refusal to "define indigenous peoples as subjects who have been turned in to the natural objects of white inquiry" is at the center of indigenous research. This commentary shares the research experience of behavioral health Native researchers, describes processes, and recommends directions for Native and non-Native researchers in planning for and implementing research that gathers and analyzes stories from Native research participants. Based upon knowledge gained by many years of research with American Indian populations, the authors' reflections of successful approaches to engaging American Indian research participants are discussed in order to assist other researchers in working sensitively with American Indians. (Contains 13 notes.)