Investigating enactments of whanaungatanga in social media for rangatahi Māori : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Psychology at Massey University, New Zealand

Abstract

Social Media (SM) and Social Networking Sites (SNS) have become omnipresent features in the lives of rangatahi (adolescent) Māori. Not only has the use of SM and SNS expanded, but their functionality has changed in diverse ways. Consequently how SM and SNS are used by rangatahi is still a developing field of research. Furthermore, how rangatahi interact with others in the digital world, is yet to be explored in regards to how this use impacts rangatahi relationships, and their mental well-being. The present study aimed to investigate enactments of whanaungatanga (establishing and maintaining relationships) in online spaces and how these enactments might influence rangatahi mental well-being. Being underpinned by Kaupapa Māori Theory, the current research utilised aspects of whanaungatanga to source and engage with participants. Over several months, semi-structured interviews were conducted with male rangatahi Māori where they discussed their use of SM and SNS, the nature of their relationships online and in real life, and their perceptions of their mental well-being. The analysis of these interviews was grounded in a pūrākau (traditional Māori narrative) approach utilising aspects of narrative analysis to explore themes that emerged from the participants’ comments and connect these themes to broader understandings of whanaungatanga as they related to Māori perspectives of hauora (well-being). Four key findings were central to how the rangatahi experienced whanaungatanga. Firstly, the rangatahi were proactively using SM and SNS to maintain and enhance a sense of whanaungatanga with people they cared about. Secondly, the rangatahi used SM and SNS to develop their aspirations to strengthen their sense of whanaungatanga with others. Thirdly, how the rangatahi were navigating their relationships IRL and in online spaces to protect their well-being and that of their friends. Lastly, was that the rangatahi preferred to engage in their relationships kanohi ki te kanohi (face-to-face) and the dynamics this preference. This thesis concludes with a discussion of the implications for those who care about rangatahi relationships and well-being, and suggestions for future research.