Abstract
The study is underpinned and guided by kaupapa Māori theory and research principles. The purpose of the study was to explore support systems comprising health, social, financial, education and whānau that exist for teenage Māori mothers/young māmā Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand. Research participants were sourced from one Teen Parent Unit (TPU); are Māori and became mothers as teenagers. Effectiveness of support was assessed in terms of contribution to holistic wellbeing and success for young māmā Māori. Holistic wellbeing and success was measured in terms of taha tinana/physical, hinengaro/mental and emotional, wairua/spiritual, and whānau/family and social relationships health and wellbeing; using Te Whare Tapa Whā - Māori health model. This study sought to empower participants by focusing on and promoting only positive experiences of support. In terms of kaupapa Māori rangahau/research, young māmā Māori contributing to and sharing their insights through pūrākau can be considered a tool for change, growth and empowerment. Some Māori academics have even suggested that pūrākau has the potential to be used not only as a research method, but a tool for decolonisation. This paper shares young māmā Māori experiences of support through their pūrākau and determines the most effective supports for strengthening their holistic wellbeing and success in a colonised country.
Presenters
Lisa HekeRegional Education Leader I Lecturer, Initial Teacher Education, Te Rito Maioha Early Childhood New Zealand, New Zealand
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Education and Learning Worlds of Differences
KEYWORDS
Inequity, Social Justice, Support Systems, Holistic Wellbeing, Indigenous Disadvantage
