Database of New Zealand mental health research
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A Samoan perspective on infant mental health
Investigator(s) / AuthorsPaula Masoe and Allister Bush
| Principal contact | |
|---|---|
| Name | Ms Paula Masoe |
| paulamasoe@familystart-porirua.org.nz | |
| The research | |
| Summary | This paper describes background to the development of the relatively new field of infant mental health and why this may be important for Pacific communities in Aotearoa/New Zealand(NZ) and elsewhere. |
| Objectives | There is a discussion of Samoan concepts and research that could inform infant mental health theory and practice. |
| Study design | A Pacific home visiting programme based at Taeaomanino Trust in Porirua, Aotearoa/NZ has formed a collaboration with child and adolescent mental health service clinicians with an interest in infant mental health, to further develop infant mental health understandings and practices in this early intervention service. |
| Methods | Clinical Trial, Qualitative, Audit / Quality Monitoring |
| Results | The benefits and practical application of this collaboration are discussed. |
| Conclusions | The paper ends with a personal perspective from one of the authors on her Samoan reflection on the relevance of attachment ideas to her family relationships and work with Pacific infants, mothers and their families. “O fanau a manu e fafaga i fuga o la’au, o fanau a tagata e fafaga i upu” (Birds feed their young seeds, While people nurture their young with words) Samoan proverb. |
| Key Descriptors | Child & Adolescent Mental Health, Clinical Practice, Family, Workforce Development |
| Disciplines | Multi disciplinary |
| Settings | DHB (District Health Board), NGO (Non Government Organisation), Community |
| Diagnostic Categories | Child and adolescent disorders |
| Populations | General Population, Pacific |
| Other Keywords | infant, mother and family, Samoan relational concept of self, Samoan culture and spirituality |
| Ethics approval | Yes |
| Academic led | No |
| Service led | Yes |
| How were service users involved | Participants of the research |
| Publication in peer review journal | Yes |
| Supporting information | |
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Page last updated: 7 November 2008