Building a Foundation for Effective Intervention: Understanding Hispanic Juveniles and Their Families

• NCJ Number: 195530
• Journal: Journal for Juvenile Justice and Detention Services Volume: 16 Issue: 1 Dated: Spring 2001 Pages: 37-52
• Author(s): Rodney A. Ellis; Tanya D. Klepper; Karen M. Sowers
• Date Published: 2001
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Survey (Cross-Cultural)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This paper provides a foundation for developing a working knowledge of Hispanic culture.

Abstract

The paper examines some of the differences between many Hispanics and members of the dominant American culture; describes some aspects of the diversity among Hispanic groups; and discusses the implications of these differences for intervention with juveniles and families of Hispanic descent. The paper reviews several major aspects of Hispanic culture that may be the sources of much "inter-cultural misunderstanding:" (1) Centrality of the Family; (2) Distinctive Roles Within the Family; (3) Importance of the Extended Family; (4) Distinct Gender Roles; (5) Social Attitudes and Interactive Styles; (6) Language; (7) Spirituality; and (8) Naming System. It also reviews diversity within the Hispanic culture, the history of immigration, and the influence of socioeconomic status. The paper identifies five types of practitioners at multiple levels of the juvenile justice system: direct practitioners, administrators, advocates, advisors, and researchers, and discusses the specific needs of each with regard to developing cultural sensitivity. References