Cultural Groundings in the Reshaped Experiences of Latino Familial Caregivers: A Normative Familismo Approach

Abstract

The current study builds understanding of the impact that normative familismo (Zinn, 1982) has on the emotional wellbeing of Latino caregivers who provide care to dependent adult loved ones. Utilizing a qualitative methodology with an exploratory approach, the researcher obtained the narratives of 7 (2=male, 5=female) Latino identifying full-time familial caregivers. Participant narratives resulted in numerous themes that highlight the influence of normative familismo in creating strategies that serve as psychosocial buffers for caregivers themselves. Participants identified familismo values that can serve to further inform understanding of how caregivers perceive their role. However, the study resulted in creating a unique understanding of how values are taught through a social learning theory, grounded in cultural practice and behavior. The learning process in combination with the values themselves, resulted in active use of reshaping. Reshaping occurred when participants' perception of their role was consistently impacted by positive reframing strategies. Reshaping and the process of its learning and use, serve as a mitigator of psychosocial stressors within Latino caregivers. Identifying the learning and use of reshaping, opens a connection with cognitive behavioral therapy frameworks, due to its largely reframing nature. The narratives within this study creates an opportunity to explore the potential to modify widely used interventions, improving their relevance and effectiveness in culturally responsive ways for Latino familial caregivers. Keywords: Latino, caregiving, coping, reshaping, CBT, familismo