Lay summary
B - This research proposal is part of a larger Maori and Psychology Research Unit (MPRU) project and works alongside another applicant's (Chloe Hoeata) research proposal. The two proposals differ in that they draw on different background literature and two different research participants.
Specifically this research aims to explore the following question:
What are the societal messages about intimate relationships?
This study has two components. First, a review of the literature on relationships (Baumeister & Dhavale, 2001; Fitness, 2001; Gergen, 2009; Leary, Koch & Hechenbleikner, 2001) will serve as background to this study. Second, two Maori research participants will be interviewed to explore the above outlined research question.
Following an ethics application, two research participants will be recruited through the MPRU network. A semi-structured interview with each participant will be conducted and with the participants' permission digitally recorded. This qualitative research draws on a thematic analysis. Repeated listening, note taking and summarising of the recorded conversations will be used to identify, analyse and report patterns and themes (Braun & Clarke, 2006).