Exploring Māori experiences at university : impact on retention and wellbeing : a thesis presented in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Arts in Psychology at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand

Abstract

The effects of the self-beliefs, social support, and perceptions of the university environment on academic nonpersistence decisions and psychological wellbeing were investigated among a non-random sample of 95 Māori university students studying at Massey University. Self-beliefs, social support, and perceptions of the university environment were explored in terms of direct effects on academic nonpersistence. In contrast, self-beliefs and social support were hypothesized to act as mediators or moderators in the relationship between perceptions of the university environment and psychological wellbeing. Major findings are that (a) self-beliefs, social support, and perceptions of the university environment had significant effects on academic nonpersistence decisions, with social support having the largest effect; (b) social support was an effective buffer between perceptions of the university environment and psychological wellbeing, however further exploration of this complex relationship is needed; (c) self-efficacy was a mediator and self-esteem was a moderator of the relationship between perceptions of the university environment and psychological wellbeing. Despite limitations, these findings have important implications for Māori university students, tertiary education providers in general, and those involved in the development and implementation of tertiary education policy. The findings also highlight the need for further research aiming to optimize positive academic and psychological outcomes for Māori students who attend university.