"Ngaa tau miiharo: the incredible years (IY)" : an exploration of six Maaori parents['] experiences attending an IY program : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Arts in Psychology at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand

Abstract

The American Incredible Years (IY) Parent Training Series offers a suite of programs that has robust research of more than thirty years. IY studies have proven that IY can be beneficial especially for children with challenging behaviours and particular diagnoses. The IY series utilises two facilitators to guide group discussion, video tape modelling, role play and rehearsal for program effectiveness and integrity. Some international and national research about IY and other cultures exist. However, there is limited research available about indigenous cultural tailoring and the appropriateness of IY and Maaori parents. Therefore, this thesis presents an exploration of six self-identified and self-referred Maaori parent’s experiences of the Incredible Years (IY) Pre-school Basic program for parents of children aged 3-8 years at two organisations known as Family Start Manukau, Auckland and Folau Alofa Trust, Wellington. None of the children represented had identified challenging behaviours or particular diagnoses. A mixed method approach with thematic analysis informed by Maaori Centred research was used. It is anticipated that the findings will capture statistics and narratives of parenting, whaanau, and identity. Measurements used were Social Competence Scale (SCS), Eyeberg Child Behaviour Inventory (ECBI), Weekly and End of Program evaluations. Pre and post interviews utilised a framework of Te Whare Tapa Whaa. Results showed that some variance of measurements was dependent upon parent’s perception, environment and participation throughout the program. Parents were satisfied, social, communicative and hopeful for the future. Emerging themes of strong whaanau, individual identity, goals and aspirations were important. The concurrent range of agencies and additional supports used while attending IY was unexpected. The final themes of whaanau ora, personal ora, personal goals and aspirations ignited hope. Thus, this study’s findings support the use of IY, fidelity and cultural tailoring can be appropriate for Maaori.