For Hispanic and Latinx individuals, personalismo is described as formal friendliness. Latinos may expect mental health providers to demonstrate simpatía or friendliness, and personalismo. If these values are not expressed, they could feel slighted. This reduces the likelihood of adherence to treatment and the mental health care providers’ recommendations.
Many Hispanic and Latinx individuals are very spiritual, and many are very religious. Religious practices among Hispanic and Latinx individuals are diverse. Religion and spirituality may play an important role in Latinx individuals' understanding of physical health and mental health, causes, treatment, and help-seeking efforts. Traditional healing practices like curanderismo, yerberos, and soberos are used as part of daily life and impact the view of healing for some Hispanic and Latinx communities.
There is a high value placed on demonstrating respeto (respect) in interactions with others. Mental health providers are viewed as authority figures and Hispanic and Latinx individuals may hesitate to ask questions or express concerns about recommendations to avoid being disrespectful.
Hispanic and Latinx individuals are known for having strong family ties because they value family and community as sources of identity and support. Latinx reference to familia (family) may often expand beyond nuclear and extended family to include not only parents and siblings, but also grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, close friends, and comadres/compadres.
