Transformation from dependence to independence of the welfare state

Abstract

Employment status and income have been identified as key determinants for the economic wellbeing of Maori families. In this study 40 Maori women who were sole parents, chose nursing education as a means of improving their own and their children's future economic wellbeing, and to become independent of the welfare state. The aim of this study is to explore and describe the transformation from dependence to independence of the welfare state. The objectives were to identify why they chose nursing education, factors that contributed to their successful transformation and suggest recommendations to assist others who may be considering nursing studies as an option. To meet the aim and objectives of this study, the following research question was asked: "What are the factors that contribute to the successful completion of their nursing studies for Maori women who as sole parents chose to study nursing while dependent upon the Domestic Purposes Benefit? To answer this research question, exploratory, qualitative interpretive approaches and ethnographic and quantitative methods were used. Themes identified were motivation, stress, coping-skills, support and personal development. There was no literature on this topic due to its exploratory nature. Local and overseas studies, relevant to this study were reviewed and integrated into the discussion section. Findings show that the main motivation to study nursing was the desire for a profession to earn money, to become independent, support their families and improve their children's future economic wellbeing. Stress for participants were related to their multiple, complex and difficult roles of nursing student, mother, and for some worker, managing on a low income and maintaining relationships with others. For the majority of participants, tiredness contributed to even higher stress levels. The issue of depression was raised in this study. Coping skills included positive attitudes, good study and time management skills, routines for children and, budgeting skills. Participants found it helpful to have supportive relationships with family, friends, tutors, ex-partners, and institutions. Friends were identified as being the most supportive followed by family, tutors and outside organisations. Both Maori and non-Maori nursing students were supportive of participants when they were not coping with aspects of their lives. Personal development was another outcome for the participants who were empowered through learning new knowledge and skills. Participants had the potential to empower others through their roles as registered nurse and the power to make changes for Maori within the health system. Self-esteem was likely to be low initially, but increased as participants experienced success with their studies, passed the State Final Examination and secured employment. The key factor that contributed to their success was the belief in themselves that they will succeed. Focussing on the future wellbeing of their children, determination and support were other contributing factors. Recommendations were made for Maori women who are sole parents and institutions such as Income Support and polytechnics on the basis of this study.