Holes in the family : exploring a black African parents's HIV education to young people in the absence of extended family in New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand

Abstract

HIV and AIDS is a serious public health issue in New Zealand. As with other communities Black Africans may be exposed to HIV. There is a need to explore ways of reducing HIV exposure to this community. This study sought to generate information that could help in addressing the associated risk. Currently, such information is sparse in New Zealand scholarly work. Black African parents who settled in New Zealand face challenges when communicating HIV and sexual health messages to young family members. This is because, in many African communities, it is taboo for parents to discuss sexual matters with their teenage children. It is the responsibility of extended family members, aunties and uncles. However, advancements in other information sources have challenged the relevance and place for uncles and aunties in the mentoring of young people around sexual topics in the Black African Diaspora. The researcher used secondary data sources and explored how parents are bridging this gap in their families. The main findings from the present study showed that the dynamics in many African family structures have changed as a result of migration and settlement in New Zealand. There have been changes in values which have seen more young people taking up the host culture while a majority of the parents have retained their culture. The perception among some African community members that New Zealand is a low-risk country in terms of HIV transmission has contributed to complacency as regards adopting safer sexual behaviour. Parents are reluctant to have, and avoid, direct communication about sex with their children. Culture and religion have a strong influence on the Black African community beliefs around sex education. Sexual topics are still considered sensitive. African migrants bring strengths and resilience to New Zealand. The recommendations from this research include the need for HIV and AIDS Health Promoters to explore ways of increasing their relationship with religious leaders and further research into ways to develop the skills and confidence of parents around sex education.