Tonga taboo: Research explores cultural factors of intimate partner violence

“It's such a taboo topic across the board,” says Maata Fonise, “especially in our Tongan and Pasifika communities.”

The Auckland University of Technology graduate wrote her masters thesis on intimate partner violence from a Tongan perspective.

“We hear about it, we know of it, but do we really sit down and dive deep into talanoa about this massive topic, and everyone's perceptions are different, so why not explore what Tongan perceptions are?”

Intimate partner violence is behaviour by a past or former partner that causes harm. This can be physical, sexual, or emotional harm, including controlling behaviours or forcing someone to do something against their will.

Fonise said research can get bundled under the term “Pacific”, but targeted studies can help to understand the unique aspects of different communities.

“A lot of the participants talked about upholding Tongan customs, the functions, the celebrations, they also come with stress and disagreements.

“Some of the participants also believe that financial strain, cultural and church obligations indirectly contributed to intimate partner violence against women.”

Maata Fonise at her Masters graduation ceremony at AUT. Photo/Supplied

A small group of participants in Auckland aged 18-49 took part in the research, including a police officer, teacher, and a stay at home parent.

Speaking to William Terite on Pacific Mornings, Fonise said her research showed differing perceptions of what counted as abuse.

“Although the participants perceived physical, emotional, verbal abuse as a form of intimate partner violence, something interesting that came out of it was not everyone identified sexual abuse as a form of intimate partner violence.”

Fonise said many of the participants spoke about the need for culturally appropriate interventions that are affordable and available.

“A lot of these interventions, they're not really known to our people. Culturally sensitive counselling sessions, free, or even just affordable counselling sessions that are available across the board.”

A 2023 study into intimate partner violence in New Zealand reported two out of five Pacific women experience physical, sexual, psychological or economic abuse from a partner throughout their lifetime.

In the study, family beliefs often related to men being the head of the family, and family violence being misconstrued as part of traditional Tongan culture.

Fonise has been encouraged to consider expanding the research in future study.

If you, or someone you know is experiencing abuse, here is a list of Pacific service providers who can help.

Watch the full interview with Maata Fonise on Pacific Mornings: