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Whakamana Te Reo AA Ngaa Rangatahi Ki Roto I Ngaa Ratonga Hauora (Empowering the Voices of Our Young People in Health Services)

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Thesis(5.03 MB)

Date

2023

Authors

Supervisor

Wilson, Denise
Eruera, Moana

Item type

Thesis

Degree name

Doctor of Philosophy

Journal Title

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Publisher

Auckland University of Technology

Abstract

Whakamana te reo aa ngaa rangatahi ki roto i ngaa ratonga hauora (Empowering the voices of our young people in health services) seeks to fill a gap within the literature about the engagement practices of rangatahi with health services. I chose to undertake this research to highlight the voices of rangatahi, experiences they have encountered during their health journey, and identify improvements needed. The aim of this research is to understand how rangatahi engage in health services, highlight their experiences, and understand varying factors that contribute to ensuring their health needs are met. The question asked was, “What do rangatahi want when they engage with health services in Aotearoa?” This kaupapa Maaori research explored the perspectives and understandings of 40 rangatahi between the ages of 16 and 18 years from secondary schools within the Waikato-Tainui and Ngaati Paaoa rohe about their experiences of engagement in health services. Advertising posters were sent out to networks and placed in various youth services. Rangatahi involved in the research self-identified their interest after seeing these posters. In Phase One, hui were carried out with rangatahi to elicit their views on the kaupapa and promote healthy koorero amongst peers. Positioned within kaupapa Maaori research, cultural values underpinned every aspect of the research; thus, promoting a safe research environment for rangatahi and space for their voices to be heard. In Phase Two, a select group of rangatahi who volunteered from the initial hui engaged in online waananga to co-create a framework that supported positive engagement for rangatahi in health services. In Phase Three, two hui were held with health care providers to test the usability of the resource co-created with rangatahi. Three themes were identified in Phase One: (1) engagement approaches from health care providers, (2) manaakitanga from health care providers, and (3) needing to be heard and accepted. A resource Areare, Taringa Mai! (Let me be heard!) was co-created in Phase Two with the rangatahi who participated in online waananga with the support of a cultural advisor and graphic recorder. This research confirmed the significance and value of carrying out research with rangatahi that provides a mana enhancing space to promote koorero that used rangatahi friendly language. The findings highlight significant barriers rangatahi encounter when accessing health services; while demonstrating the autonomy of rangatahi who are well equipped to be involved and make decisions about their everyday lives. With the right support, they can make informed decisions about their health needs. It is important for researchers and health care providers to acknowledge rangatahi decision-making skills and to provide a platform that empowers rangatahi to engage effectively in health services where they are welcomed and respected. Reducing barriers for engagement improves access to health care and engagement by rangatahi. This research contributes valuable insights into rangatahi experiences of health services necessary for effective engagement practices in health services across Aotearoa. More research is required with rangatahi to further benefit their health seeking experiences and ensure their health needs are being met.

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https://hdl.handle.net/10292/15853

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Doctoral Theses