Koi patu koi mamae : disciplining Maori children

Abstract

This thesis is an exploration of Maori experiences of child physical punishment. An historical overview of western and 'traditional' Maori child rearing practices is presented, followed by a review of the literature concerning child physical punishment in contemporary times. The research method for this study was informed by critical theory to facilitate participants' understandings of dominant ideological constructions and power dynamics within New Zealand society as they concern the physical disciplining of Maori children. Six Maori participants were interviewed about their experiences concerning child physical discipline. The most prominent themes which arose from their talk were identified through thematic analysis. Discourse analysis was then employed to elucidate the dominant discourses that participants draw upon to explain their experiences and practices concerning physical punishment. Similarites and differences between the existing literature and the results of this study are discussed.