A Mātauranga Māori conceptualisation of harmful sexual behaviour

Māori have a unique way of understanding the world based on Mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) which has been marginalised through colonisation. The study aimed to glean insight into a Mātauranga Māori conceptualisation of the phenomenon of harmful sexual behaviour. Additionally, consideration is given to how Mātauranga Māori could assist in the healing process for Māori who have engaged in harmful sexual behaviour. A thematic analysis was used to analyse interviews with five tohunga from this area of work. The main themes that were identified were; Mātauranga Māori from Te Ao Tawhito/ Traditional Māori World; impacts of colonisation on Māori sexuality and how Mātauranga Māori can be used in healing