Getting the story right: reflecting on an Indigenous rubric to guide the interpretation of mortality data

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Cram F et al.

November 22, 2022

Summary:

This article presents a reflection of how well the Family Violence Death Review Committee (FVDRC) embedded Te Pou in developing its Sixth Report “Men Who Use Violence”, published in 2020. Te Pou is a Māori responsiveness rubric published in 2019 by Ngā Pou Arawhenua. Authors of the current article reflect on how the FVDRC strove to get the story right (Tika-to be correct or true), be culturally and socially responsive (Manaakitanga-hospitability, kindness, support), advance equity, self-determination and social justice (Mana-prestige, authority, spiritual power), and establish relationships for positive change (Mahi Tahi-working together). Opportunities for improved responsiveness in FVDRC reporting are identified, as well as suggestions for extending the guidance in Te Pou. The authors recommend that other Mortality Review Committees also undertake reflective practice on responsiveness to Māori/Indigenous peoples.

Comment:

This paper deconstructs the notion that ‘numbers don’t lie’ (spoiler alert – discrimination occurs in the interpretation and reporting of Māori data). Importantly, the authors go further to suggest and test opportunities to ‘getting the story right’. Research organisations/committees should look to develop, and reflect on, their own pou and practice.

Reference: J Interpers Violence. 2022;37(21-22):NP19599-NP19623.

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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