ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To explore pepe [infant] sleep practices and the key motivators among selected Maori and non-Maori mama [mothers] in Auckland, New Zealand, in relation to the risk of sudden unexpected death in infancy (SUDI). METHODS: Qualitative research underpinned by a kaupapa Maori cultural framework was undertaken. In-depth face-to-face interviews occurred in the homes of mama with young pepe born in Counties Manukau, Auckland. Interview transcripts were analyzed using general purpose thematic analysis. RESULTS: Thirty mama participated, including 17 Maori. Two-thirds of mama reported previous or current bed sharing. The fundamental human need for adequate sleep motivated half the mama in the present study, and especially Maori mama, to bed share. The second most common reason given was closeness and convenience. This was followed by breastfeeding, which was cited as a reason by Maori mama only. These findings were interpreted in terms of intrinsic fear, culture, and mama deployment of knowledge. CONCLUSION: Service providers are encouraged to respond to the lived experiences and cultural realities, values, and beliefs of mama when designing and delivering effective SUDI prevention interventions. Innovative approaches for providing structured and opportunistic, culturally appropriate education and support around safe sleep are likely to be well-received by mama and their whanau [family/ies].
