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How the media and politicians represent Mäori health and ethnic disparities

Making Education Easy

From Māori Health Review Issue 1
Authors:
  • Cormack D
Summary:

The author of this study used critical discourse analysis to examine how print media, political debate and speeches represent Mäori health, and health disparities between Mäori and non-Mäori in New Zealand. When talking about these issues, a number of explanations including socio-economic, biological/genetic, lifestyle/behavioural, and racism may be employed, and these were examined as part of the study. The author finds that there are several recurring ‘commonsense’ themes which appear in print media and in political debate and speeches. These themes are important in that they may both reflect and influence public understanding of these issues, and may affect the type of interventions which are employed to address inequalities.

Comment:
Donna Cormack (Waitaha, Kati Mamoe, Kai Tahu), in her examination of discourse in New Zealand media, provides an insight into how Mäori health and ethnic inequalities are represented. A focus on ‘surface causes’ (such as lifestyle choices) will only encourage surface actions and interventions, ignoring root causes (such as racism). She encourages critical reading of discourse and asks why Mäori health is represented in certain ways and who benefits from these ways of telling the story. Donna suggests that we resist damaging discourses, challenge taken-for-granted assumptions and provide alternative ways to present Mäori health in the media.
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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