The psychological impact of migration: practice considerations in working with Hispanic women

    Authors

    A. M. Leon;S. F. Dziegielewski

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    J. Soc. Work Pract.

    Keywords

    MENTAL-HEALTH-SERVICES; PUERTO-RICAN WOMEN; SOCIAL-WORK; DEPRESSIVE; SYMPTOMATOLOGY; ACCULTURATIVE STRESS; SUPPORT GROUPS; CULTURE; MOTHERS; PERSPECTIVES; DIVERSITY; Social Work

    Abstract

    The challenge for clinicians working with Hispanic immigrant women is to integrate a culturally sensitive practice framework while also accurately assessing for mental disorders. This article presents some of the challenges experienced by Hispanic women who migrate to the United States, placing them within an unfamiliar and sometimes conflictual cultural context. Existing literature is used to emphasize the importance of integrating aspects of the Hispanic culture in delivering therapeutic services to Hispanic immigrant women. Psychological problems resulting from the migration experience are identified and the use of defense mechanisms such as idealization by immigrant women is highlighted. The interdependent relationship between culturally sensitive practice and clinical diagnosis is explored. Therapeutic group sessions are presented as one way to help this population develop mutual support systems, increase their self-esteem, problem-solve difficulties produced by the migratory experience, identify community resources and increase parenting skills. In closing, future applications of this type of intervention model are suggested.

    Journal Title

    Journal of Social Work Practice

    Volume

    13

    Issue/Number

    1

    Publication Date

    1-1-1999

    Document Type

    Article

    Language

    English

    First Page

    69

    Last Page

    82

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000080541600008

    ISSN

    0265-0533

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