I was doing time too : experiences of Pasifika parents in the Youth Justice system in Aotearoa New Zealand : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology, Massey University, Albany, New Zealand

Abstract

Navigating the youth justice system for any parent is extremely challenging. However, for Pasifika (Pacific Islander) parents in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ), these challenges are often compounded by ongoing experiences of injustice, racism and discrimination. Difficulties range from cultural barriers relating to language and worldviews to the complexities of engaging with Western legal and mental health systems that often conflicts with Pasifika understandings of behaviour, accountability and justice. There is growing recognition that parental involvement in youth justice processes contributes to more positive outcomes, yet Pasifika parents and families remain largely unheard in existing research and policy. Despite the over-representation of Pasifika youth in the justice system across the globe, interventions are predominantly framed through Western paradigms. Given the collective identity central to Pasifika cultures, youth are not viewed in isolation, but as inseparable from their families and communities. Meaningful responses must therefore centre on the experiences and voices of Pasifika families as a whole. This PhD explores the experiences of Pasifika parents and families in the youth justice system in Aotearoa NZ. Framed within a Pasifika (Samoan) worldview, it adopts a by-Pasifika, for-Pasifika approach, culturally aligned methodology, methods and data analysis. Through this approach, the research journey is metaphorically and carefully woven as an ‘ie toga (fine mat) embodying care, respect, and knowledge-sharing. This study culminates in the development of a culturally grounded model for enhancing Pasifika parental engagement in youth justice processes. Key findings provide insight into systemic challenges faced by Pasifika families and offer practical recommendations for policy and practice aimed at reducing disparities and supporting collective wellbeing.