Dr Lena Rodriguez
Humanities and Social Science
Newcastle University
Australia
Biography
"My work provides a contribution to address the lack of culturally appropriate, comprehensive studies in relation to Polynesian health in Australia. As Maori and Pacific Islanders are one of the fastest growing population groups in Australia, their long term health outcomes, particularly associated with obesity-related disease, will become of greater concern for Australian healthcare. I have published articles in relation to the complex issues surrounding this issue to raise awareness and also provide insight into more effective nursing and allied health practice in relation to working with this CALD group. Other publications concern Polynesian masculinities and sport. Pasifika are highly visible in Rugby League and Rugby Union. These articles address issues affecting these players both on and off the field. I also teach into the Masters of Social Change and Development. This program explores issues around the politics of aid and development and better ways to deliver more effective targeted programs. This entails a mix of research methods examining issues of governance, capacity building and social justice"
Research Interest
Public Health and Health Services , Sociology
Publications
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Rodriguez L. Science or bio-piracy? A sociological examination of genetic research into the ‘warrior gene’in modern Polynesians. InProceedings of the Annual TASA Conference, Sociological Association of Australia 2009 Dec (pp. 1-4).
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Rodriguez L, McDonald B. After the whistle: Issues impacting on the health and wellbeing of Polynesian players off the field. Asia-Pacific Journal of Health, Sport and Physical Education. 2013 Nov 1;4(3):201-15.
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George JR, Rodriguez L. Hybrid youth identity in the Maori/Pacific Island diaspora in Australia: a study of young urban Polynesian men in Sydney. New Zealand Sociology. 2009;24(1):3.
