Māori cultural identity : a determinant of wellbeing for older Māori : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Psychology at Massey University, Manawatū, Aotearoa New Zealand
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Date
2020
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Massey University
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Abstract
Kaumātua is a term used to describe older Māori in Aotearoa New Zealand. Encompassing both males and females, the term serves a functional purpose that reflects a sense of leadership within given communities. With various researchers making contributions to strategies and focusing on how older adults navigate this phase of life, it is important to ensure the voices of kaumātua are accounted for in ageing discourse. When exploring determinants of health for older Māori, an emphasis on Māori cultural identity (MCI) as a determinant of wellbeing specifically, may provide a more empowering perspective towards the ageing process. The research aim for this thesis is to explore the relationship between Māori cultural identity and well-being for older Māori adults. The research objectives are outlined below: 1. To examine the different levels of MCI present in this sample of older Māori adults. 2. To examine the relationship between each level of MCI and the four dimensions of well-being, as encompassed by Te Whare Tapa Whā. 3. To examine the relationship between demographic variables and well-being for older Māori adults. The data for the present study was collected as secondary data, sourced from the 2018 Health, Work and Retirement (HWR) study survey. A total of 970 participants who self identified as Māori, aged 55 years and over and provided answers to all MCI items were included in the sample. The data was analysed using Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA, Mann Whitney U tests and multiple linear regression. Main findings from the present study indicate that Māori cultural identity plays a role in shaping wellbeing for older Māori adults. Older Māori adults who reported a secure MCI also reported experiencing a greater sense of overall wellbeing, supporting MCI as a significant determinant of wellbeing, for older Māori adults.
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Māori Masters Thesis, Tuakiri, Kaumātua, Hauora