Analosa Veukiso-Ulugia
Doctor of Philosophy, (Public Policy)
Study Completed: 2017
College of Humanities & Social Sciences
Citation
Thesis Title
Sexual Health Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviour of Samoan Youth in Aotearoa New Zealand
Read article at Massey Research Online: 
In New Zealand, the sexual health status of teenagers requires urgent attention, particularly for Maori and Pacific young people. Issues arising from unsafe sexual behaviour pose serious social, economic and health risks to individuals and their families. Cultural and religious values largely frame how sexuality and pregnancy are understood among many Pacific communities. Mrs Veukiso-Ulugia's mixed methods research explores key factors that influence the sexual health knowledge, attitudes and behaviour for Samoan youth. In addition to analysing the health information of 535 Samoan students who participated in a nationwide survey, she interviewed eight experts and facilitated focus groups with 55 Samoan secondary students. Her findings revealed that three broad factors consisting of, the individual, family, and wider environment, significantly influence sexual health knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. Addressing health issues for Pacific communities including Samoan youth requires an understanding of 'context', 'communication' and 'coordination of services'.
Supervisors
Associate Professor Grant Duncan
Mr Cluny MacPherson