Theoretical Influences on Counseling Multi-Cultural Populations

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In Latino culture the family is very strong and its members rely on each other for strength and support. Familismo is a word used to describe the Latino cultural value where the family is highly valued and individual identities are seen as a product of these relationships. A recommendation for family counseling is common. Latin cultures view that the family is the primary source of support and a suggestion that the family is not meeting this obligation can bring about feelings of shame, increase levels of stress, and reinforce reluctance to seek professional counseling services. Involving the entire family increases the chances of successful outcomes with Latinos (Bernal and Flores-Ortiz (1982[f]).

Latinos have clearly defined traditional sex roles where Machismo defines men as being strong, dominant family providers and Masrianismo defines the women as submissive and selflessly devoted to the family, especially the children[g]. The practitioner who works with a Latino family must appreciate these ideals and suggest interventions in league with these values.

Conclusion

Though we cannot change our backgrounds or ethnicity, we can avoid stereotyping and false expectations by examining our own values and becoming familiar with our client’s backgrounds as well as choosing appropriate counseling methods. Sensitivity toward client expectation, attributions, values, roles, beliefs, themes of coping, and vulnerability are always necessary for effective outcomes (LaFramboise, 1985). The development of a balanced client-centered counseling method will assist the counselor in providing effective services.

References

Ibrahim, F. A. "Effective Cross-Cultural Counseling and Psychotherapy." THE COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGIST 13 (1985): 625-638.

Jereb, R. "Assessing the Adequacy of Counseling Theories for Use with Black Clients." COUNSELING AND VALUES 27 (1982): 17-26.

Katz, J. H. "The Sociopolitical Nature of Counseling." THE COUSELING PSYCHOLOGIST" 13 (1985): 615-623.

LaFromboise, T. D. "The Role of Cultural Diversity in Counseling Psychology." THE COUNSELING PSYCHOLOGIST 13 (1985): 649-655.

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