Briana Ortiz, Maria de los Angeles Villareal, Lauren Rosa and Lauren Gulbas Ph.D
Previous research has shown that among adolescents, Latinas in the U.S. show some of the highest rates of suicidal behavior, however, few studies have emphasized the different experiences among ethnic groups. The commonalities that affect various ethnic groups in differing manners are sexual assault, acculturative stress and enculturation, the roles of religion and spirituality, and different manifestations and differing interpretations of distress. There is a need for correct culturally sensitive practices for suicidal adolescents since the beliefs and attitudes toward suicidal behaviors are very different across cultures. Therefore, methods of help-seeking patterns will also be unique to each group. This research provides a better understanding of suicidal behaviors in youth of color in the context of cultural considerations, with an emphasis on prevention and psychological treatment. Better understanding of each group’s mental health problems such as suicidal behavior can help psychologists improve the availability of treatment and remove cultural barriers.
Comments
Hello! Y’all did a fantastic job on this! I think it is really important to look into minority issues and I have never seen anyone do a study on this topic, but it should be discussed more!! I wonder what steps you could take here at UT to spread awareness? There are so many people that can benefit form this message and more regarding the topic. Keep it up!! – Alexandria Rosa
I read an article in the last year about the suicide rates of Latina adolescents and how cultural differences can be a factor. I really like the research you’ve done and the topic itself. I think it’s very important for people to hear about it. How do you think health professionals should handle the problem given the findings? – Terrian Spurs
Hi Terrrian! Thank you for your response and question! Health professionals should be mindful to include family when providing treatment to Latina adolescents as there is a strong emphasis on family within their cultures. – Maria Villarreal
Hi! Great job! Your research is so necessary. I am wondering if there is a specific way that treatment should change to be more culturally sensitive for Latinas? For example, if I were a mental health professional, what should I pay attention to or how should I change my services? – Kylie
Thank you for your comment Kylie! We believe that specifically for Austin there is a need for more bilingual health care providers and trainings in culturally adaptive evidence-based treatments. – Maria Villarreal
I was not familiar with this literature, so I’m very glad I got the chance to learn more about it. Thank you for sharing this important work! – Rob Reichle
Thank you Rob for the feedback and we are glad you enjoyed the read! – Maria Villarreal