Culture, Identity, and Mental Well-being

Investigation into the Relationship of Culture and Mental Health

Culture, Identity, and Mental Well-being Research Project

This innovative research project examines the relationship between culture, identity, mental health and well-being. Using data from the Growing up in New Zealand longitudinal study, the research team is investigating how different markers of culture and identity might contribute to mental health and well-being. This is the first time this dataset has been employed in this way, offering fresh insights into the role of culture in supporting hauora Māori.

The study employs a bespoke methodology designed specifically for this research, ensuring the data is accurately extracted, analysed, and interpreted. This methodology, which is still in the early stages of development, offers a unique approach to exploring how cultural identity can influence mental health outcomes.

The research team includes Professor Te Kani Kingi, Director of Te Aratiatia ki te Hauora mental health research programme, who developed the culture and identity scale used in the Growing up in New Zealand study. Alongside Professor Kingi are Dr. Ben Fletcher, a quantitative research expert with a background in neuroscience and psychology; Dr. Caroline Walker, a molecular biologist; and Associate Professor Zaneta M. Thayer, a biological anthropologist at Dartmouth College, New Hampshire, USA. This multidisciplinary collaboration brings together significant national and international expertise, incorporating diverse perspectives to explore the complex intersections of culture and well-being.

As the project progresses the team will release key findings, including a technical report outlining the methodology and initial insights.