title: Managing communication tensions and challenges during the end-of-life journey: perspectives of Māori kaumātua and their whānau.
abstract: The purpose of this study is to explore the cultural practices and communication tensions perceived among Māori kaumātua (elders) and their whānaunga (extended family) during the end-of-life journey. Further, the study aims to explore the manner in which the tensions are managed. The study was framed by relational dialectics theory and included interviews with 21 kaumātua and focus groups with 39 whānau members. The study identified three cultural practices (dying at home, prayer, and song) that helped to build connection among the family members and also helped to connect the dying person to the spiritual world. Further, four communication tensions were noted: (a) autonomy and connection; (b) conflict and connection; (c) isolation and connection; and (d) balancing the needs of self and other. To manage these tensions, the following strategies were used: (a) coordination conversations; (b) inclusion in decision-making conversations; (c) emotional support within the whānau; and (d) passing on lessons to the next generation.
authors.affiliation: a Department of Management Communication , University of Waikato.
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Oetzel
authors.forename: Mary
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Simpson
authors.forename: Kay
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Berryman
authors.forename: Tiwai
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Iti
authors.forename: Rangimahora
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Reddy
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003142:Communication; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D003657:Decision Making; D005190:Family / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology; D054541:Family Conflict / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009520:New Zealand; D044382:Population Groups / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011582:Psychological Theory; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013727:Terminal Care / Q000523:psychology*