Arts & Social Sciences
Te Kura Kete Aronui

Abstract

Huijbers, K. (1996). Māori women in Taranaki and their experiences in health.

The purpose of this thesis was to document the health experiences of eleven Māori women in Taranaki. The aim was to focus on the communication of health information and explore theme areas through in-depth interviews. The four theme areas that guided the interviews were:

• who are the communicators of health information?
• how is health information communicated?
• what methods are perceived to be effective?
• what environment aids this process?

The research topic and qualitative design were a collective suggestion initiated through discussion after a health hui in Taranaki. The key informant approach was used to recruit participants. Qualitative data analysis ensured depth and detailed retention of local experiences.

The participants all stated that ideally the communication of health information should be by Māori for Māori. Information based on actual needs identified by Māori women in the community was viewed as more likely to be effective, particularly if the community was involved in the development of messages, local resources and at all levels of the decision making process. Participants felt that generally their ways of communicating health information were quite different than other health workers or organizations. Health information was defined by many as any information that makes a person well. The importance of positive role modeling was emphasized. The marae was a preferred environment for the communication of health information for many women although some of the women mentioned a variety of restrictions in using the marae. The preferred environment for the communication of health information was one that was comfortable, safe and accessible.