Pacific Cultural and Belief Systems

Question 1

What are the pacific values?

Answer 1

family, respect, collectivism, spirituality and service

Question 2

Describe the pacific value of Respect

Answer 2

• Refers to the samoan practices of values and beliefs, to ensure respect and polite communication in any context.
• To practice respect is to value, cherish, nurture and take care of the space/relationship
• It recognises special connections people have within the community

Question 3

Describe the pacific value of Service

Answer 3

• Contribution and responsibility
• Obligation of care any individual has towards other individuals and groups.
• Pacific people would put their study/work on hold in order to help someone ill in their community rather than rely on the healthcare system

Question 4

Describe the pacific value of Collectivism

Answer 4

Thinking and acting collectively in matters such as land-holding, education, decision making for the group and for individuals, support for individuals
- Working as a group
- Doing what’s best for the group
- Families and communities have a central role
- Compliance to the norm
- Putting the interests of the group above individual gain
- Reciprocacy is a requirement

Question 5

Describe the pacific value of Family

Answer 5

• Extended family: the term family is not understood as the nuclear family (typically father, mother and siblings), but as the extended family (with grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, etc.)

Question 6

Describe the pacific value of Spirituality

Answer 6

• Spirituality includes spiritual and religious practices
• When it comes to health, turning towards a greater power can be reassuring
• For some spirituality can bring about/be a place of healing
• Church is an integral part of their community.