The social support networks of 25 Puerto Rican single mothers of young children with disabilities were examined and compared with current models of family support for children with disabilities. This study was designed to assess the support systems of Latino single mothers in light of dominant models of family support. The Family Support Scale, the ECOMAP, and responses to open-ended questions were employed to describe the characteristics of Puerto Rican single mothers' support systems. Study findings suggest that members of the children's immediate and extended kinship system, including non-blood relatives (e.g., madrinas), play a strong role in the support network of the mothers interviewed. Implications for early childhood professionals who work with Latino parents of children with disabilities are examined.

The purpose of this research is to reveal the range and depth of older island-dwelling Puerto Ricans' perceptions of viable long-term care alternatives and to evaluate the demographic and cultural underpinnings of their attitudes, preferences, and expectations for particular care options. Data from the census and sample surveys show demographic changes that simultaneously expand the numbers of older adults and reduce the numbers of potential family caregivers. Focus group data reveal cultural changes concurrent with demographic shift. Older Puerto Ricans see that the traditional intergenerational contract that promotes family care to older adults is being rewritten to accommodate the demographic changes of the late 20th century and cultural changes observed in the younger generations. They strive to retain some measure of self-management and to more flexibly integrate informal and formal services, creating a dynamic and individualized plan of care for themselves.

No abstract

Previously established protective factors against mental illness, particularly school factors, do not universally apply to Somali youth. Interventions that strengthen individual, family, or community factors, or that increase the relevance of school factors, should be explored for these youth.