Mexican Americans' initial preferences for counselors: The role of ethnic factors.

Abstract

In 3 studies, Mexican-American college students reported a clear preference for ethnically similar counselors. These findings are robust because they pertain to both men and women, they pertain to persons who have and have not sought counseling, they are not significantly influenced by the experimenter's ethnicity, and they apply to students who have considered professional help for a wide range of personal problems. Furthermore, the 3rd study demonstrated that these preference ratings are unlikely to be a function of the participants' knowing the intent of the studies. Contrary to the mixed findings of past research, the present research suggests that ethnicity plays an important role in the counseling of Mexican Americans. It is argued that the methodologies used to assess preference (as either a judgment or a choice) may be an important factor in the study of Mexican Americans' preferences for their counselor's ethnic background.

Barriers to treatment for eating disorders among ethnically diverse women

“…This finding is in accord with research demonstrating that acculturation level has a significant effect on ratings of counselor trustworthiness and understanding among Hispanic students (Lopez, Lopez, & Fong, 1991;Pomales & Williams, 1989) and that acculturation is a predictor of attitude toward utility of mental health service among Chinese Americans (Ying & Miller, 1992).…”

Counseling Outcome as a Function of Counselor Nationality for American Expatriate Clients

“…Results suggested that clients generally express a greater preference for a counselor who is ethnically similar (Atkinson, Poston, Furlong, & Mercado, 1989;Bennett & BigFoot-Sipes, 1991;Sánchez & Atkinson, 1983). By contrast, Lopez, Lopez, and Fong (1991) reported that when a group of potential Mexican American clients rated the credibility of ethnically similar and dissimilar counselors, there was no difference. Additionally, Helms and Carter (1991) reported that racial identity and demographic models operate differently in different racial groups regarding preferences for similarity of various demographic variables.…”

Report of the ASHP Ad Hoc Committee on Ethnic Diversity and Cultural Competence

“…5,7,8 Several studies have shown that minorities are more likely to select clinicians who mirror their own racial or ethnic background. 5,[9][10][11] The clinician's ability to speak the patient's language is a significant consideration in the patient's choice. 5,11 Racial and ethnic minorities are generally more satisfied with the care received from minority physicians.…”