Hispanic Behavioral Science Research: Recommendations for Future Research

Abstract

This article briefly presents the major developments in Hispanic behavioral science research over the past decade and provides recommendations for future research. Some of the major research-related developments have emanated largely from three research centers dedicated to the study of Hispanic mental health, a national organization of service providers, and a minority mental health fellowship program. Numerous individuals from various backgrounds were consulted about future research directions. The salient feature of the advice that was received and the literature searched was that a theoretical orientation is emerging in Hispanic focused research. This theoretical orientation makes use of acculturation and biculturalism as major constructs within which to embed findings and to draw conclusions from empirical studies. Recommendations for future behavioral research with Hispanics were organized into three broad categories: life span issues, delivery of mental health services, and prevention and mental health. Finally, methodological considerations were discussed, including the heterogeneity of the Hispanic population and strategies for obtaining sensitive information.

Sex Roles and Perceptions of Femininity and Masculinity of Hispanic Women: A Review of the Literature

“…While many recent studies have investigated femininity and masculinity, most of these focused on white middle-class women. The literature on Hispanic women is limited (Espin and Warner, 1982;Padilla and Lindholm, 1984;Pugh and Vazquez-Nuttall, 1983;Rosario, 1982;Torres-Matrullo, 1980). The best known of the several instruments designed to measure masculinity, femininity, and androgyny (individuals high in both traits) that have been used with Hispanics are the Bem Sex Role Inventory [BSRI] (Bern, 1974) and the Personal Attributes Questionnaire [PAQ] (Spence, Helmreich, & Stapp, 1974).…”

Acculturative Stress Among Hispanics: A Bidimensional Model of Ethnic Identification

“…Although it has been suggested that perceived membership in both ethnic and mainstream groups may be best to reduce conflict and adjustment problems (Padilla & Lindholm, 1984;Rogler, Cortes, & Malgady, 1991), researchers have often failed to operationalize ethnic identification as a bidimensional phenomenon (Rotheram-Borus, 1990). In contrast to the ethnic identification domain, acculturation research has recognized the need to consider the degree of immersion into both alternative and native cultures (Berry, 1980;Berry, Trimble, & Olmedo, 1986;Mendoza, 1989).…”

Voices of Hispanic College Students

“…Moreover, we echo Padilla and Lindholm (1984) in the quest for future qualitative research within the HJBS to investigate issues and stressors of life span development. Qualitative research is an essential avenue in which one can capture a student's deepest fears and challenges, as well as dreams and aspirations about the college process.…”