Outlines the predominant characteristics of the Hispanic community, citing population, economic, and sociological statistics. Urges adapting teaching styles to meet Hispanics' needs and provide continuity of learning for Hispanics in Catholic schools and parish religious educational centers. Discusses cultural variables and their implications for…

Defining "little" cultural traditions as those customs, behaviors and attitudes of ordinary people involved in the day-to-day problems of living and survival, this article traces the origins, historic influences and general characteristics of Hispanic culture and of its Mexican, Puerto Rican and Cuban subcultures. (DS)

Although data indicate that Alzheimer's disease occurs among all racial and ethnic populations, the Alzheimer's disease support group system is used nationally primarily by white, middle-class caregivers. Developing a model ethnic-specific support group for Hispanics requires delineation of formal and informal health care networks in the ethnic…

Synthesizes available literature that addresses: (1) utilization patterns of alcohol-related services by Mexican Americans; (2) existing therapeutic approaches which take into account cultural factors; and (3) existing approaches to alcohol abuse education and prevention for this population. Discusses research needs and the need for…

Recommends a three-part writing process of prewriting, writing, and postwriting activities that uses the cultural world students bring with them to the classroom to stimulate writing improvement. (JL)

Focuses on variations in perceptions and conceptions of machismo within Mexican and Latino culture. Studies how Latino fathers living in United States perceive machismo, utilizing data from in-depth interviews. Identifies two models of masculinity, one as compensation for powerlessness, the other grounded in ethics, honor, and courage. (TES)

Professionals who work with developmentally disabled Hispanic clients must enhance their own ability to work with ethnic minorities and become thoroughly familiar with the culture of the people they serve. To encourage disabled Hispanic individuals to apply for services, agencies can employ strategies such as bilingual capability, use of…

Data obtained from interviews with 1,804 non-institutionalized Hispanic individuals age 55 and over were analyzed in an attempt to understand how formal and informal social support systems and awareness of available social services (environmental awareness) affect the ability of elderly Hispanics to remain independent within their communities. The…

Posits a distinction between cultures motivated by individualistic value systems (idiocentric) and collectivistic value systems (allocentric). Study reveals that Mexican American adolescents describe themselves in more allocentric terms, while Anglo American adolescents choose idiocentric terms. Suggests a correlation between idiocentric values…

Two English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers looked at parent involvement and cultural traits of Hispanics to better incorporate local Hispanic families into their school system. The project took place at Chamberlain Elementary School in Goshen, Indiana, in 1998-99. The school enrolls about 314 students, of whom approximately 94 are from…

A review of over 500 research studies identified 3 factors influencing the ability of Mexican American students to profit from the instruction currently available in United States colleges and universities: (1) a different language; (2) a different economic situation; and (3) a different response to social and personal interactions. Based on these…

This workbook comprises eight lessons designed to enhance the self-esteem of Latino students, grades 5 through 8, through the exploration of family, family traditions and values, and the affirmation of family strengths. Each lesson begins with an illustration that reflects the content of the lesson and an introductory page. Each introductory page…

This teaching guide comprises eight lessons designed to enhance the self-esteem of Latino students, grades 5 through 8, through the exploration of family, family traditions and values, and the affirmation of family strengths. Student objectives include the following: (1) define family; (2) describe similarities and differences among Latino…