SELF-DETERMINATION FROM A PACIFIC PERSPECTIVE

Separation from external influences in one's decision making is so hig hly valued in the United States that autonomy is considered to be a be nchmark of one's maturity. However, self-determination without conside ration of group-oriented values is discordant with non-Western and som e Western orientations. Using examples from Pacific peoples, this arti cle highlights the complex loop of self-determination in which an emph asis is placed On group welfare in individual decision-making. Implica tions for Social work practice ave discussed.