Positive Sexual and Reproductive Health - Integrating Indigenous knowledge and culturally responsive social work practice with Pacific communities

Abstract

SWSD18-1355 Positive Sexual and Reproductive Health – Integrating Indigenous knowledge and culturally responsive social work practice with Pacific communities Analosa Veukiso-Ulugia* 1 , Michelle Redman-Maclaren2 1School of Counselling, Human Services and Social Work, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand, 2James Cook University, Cairns, Australia

Sexual and reproductive health is understood and experienced differently across cultures. While a ‘positive and respectful approach to sexuality' is a noteworthy goal and is advocated at a range of global forums, it is acknowledged that global approaches are not always consistent with the worldview of Indigenous peoples. This presentation advocates the integration of Indigenous knowledges to enable the development of culturally responsive social work practice with Pacific island communities. Sexual and reproductive health knowledge, attitudes and behaviours are largely shaped by social, economic and cultural environments. For many Pacific communities, culture and spirituality are integral components that shape the way that sexual health and wellbeing is understood and represented. More recently, Pacific communities have experienced rapid social transformation that has negatively affected the ways sexual health is discussed. All too often, sexual and reproductive issues are classed as ‘sensitive' and ‘taboo' topics, as a result, these issues are not openly discussed. This presentation challenges practitioners to reflect on their own assumptions and beliefs about sexual and reproductive health and offers insights for service delivery, research, and related policy. A core social work skill is the ability to work respectfully with diversity and difference. Issues affecting sexual and reproductive health issues occur across the lifespan. Drawing on research undertaken with Pacific youth in Aotearoa New Zealand, this presentation showcases effective approaches social workers can use when working with Pacific communities. Disclosure of Interest: None Declared Keywords: Sexual and reproductive health, Culturally responsive practice, Pacific communities