Recovering voices in mental health, families and anthropology : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Arts in Social Anthropology, Massey University, Albany, New Zealand

Abstract

This essay discusses some experiences of families, carers and people with experience of mental ill-health and recovery in New Zealand, focussing on ‘recovering moments’ in social exchanges, families, mental health settings and in anthropological research. It draws comparisons between phenomenological approaches in anthropology and practices promoted in recent mental health recovery philosophy, with a particular focus on the production and exchange of particular local expertise, much of which resists academic appropriation or definition. The value, currency and relevance of these ‘recovering voices’ relates to their being privileged, validated and transmitted in ethical exchanges in a range of social settings that exemplify aspects of Marcel Mauss’ discussion of the act of giving, receiving and repaying (1980:34).