Pasifika Perceptions of Pacific Men and Women and Their Interrelationship with Mental Health in Aotearoa

Abstract

Research exploring Pacific peoples’ views of mental health is growing, and this study contributes to this space as part of a larger research project, Pasifika Mental Health in Aotearoa (PMHA). The PMHA was a two-phase sequential mixed-methods project comprised of a survey (phase 1) and an e-talanoa (phase 2). The e-talanoa formed the foundation of this study and explored participant views in response to vignettes that presented a Pacific man experiencing depression and a Pacific woman experiencing anxiety. Pasifika critical realist thematic talanoa analysis of participant responses to the vignettes identified views of Pacific men as stoic and emotionless caretakers that were more likely to suppress emotions and uphold the hegemonic Polynesian masculine ideals of being a leader, provider and protector. Participants perceived Pacific women as emotional nurturers that were more likely to be emotionally expressive and able to navigate multiple roles, including caregiving, providing empathetic support and looking after the home. Overall, this research contributes significantly to Pacific mental health research and highlights the need for more nuanced and intersectional approaches towards Pacific mental health, which can contribute to improved mental health and wellbeing for our communities.