Abstract:
Intergenerational trauma and alcohol use amongst colonised populations is a growing area of research. This study aimed to add to the literature through exploring this narrative amongst Indo-Fijian people in Aotearoa and the contemporary challenges around alcohol use. A convergent mixed-method design was employed via integrating quantitative and qualitative research paradigms to adequately capture the flexibility of the research phenomenon. Study 1 utilised and semi-constructed self-report questionnaire (N=58) to derive descriptive statistics amongst sociocultural components around drinking in Indo-Fijian environments. Study 2 utilised 5 focus groups to explore the underlying narratives of the sociocultural components to drinking, and to delve into intergenerational trauma amongst Indo-Fijian people. A convergent in findings gave a nuanced understanding to important sociocultural elements around Indo-Fijian drinking behaviours: ethnic sense of belonging, kava and alcohol in the men’s space, and cultural mannerism and expectations (i.e. host obligations, generosity and sharing). Gender differences in drinking were discussed through socially constructed spaces, gendered norms and expectations. Indo-Fijians navigate a unique identity, with the connection to their Indigenous Hindustani world and the associated worldviews around mental wellbeing, and adaptation to the Pacific world. Overall, it was highlighted that culturally relevant psychoeducation is required to address transmission of trauma related challenges and heal cycles of alcohol abuse in the community.