| The Hispanic population in the United States represents the largest ethnic minority; however, research indicates that this population is not accessing the child welfare system proportionally to their population size. This fact, obviously, does not indicate that the Hispanic population has no need for such services and supports; rather, it may point to some barriers in accessing needed services.;This study investigates the role that culture plays in the decision making process of child placement in families of Mexican descent in the Texas-Mexico border region. The study was conducted because the literature often dismisses this detail as a simple cultural issue; however, no studies have been conducted to specifically analyze this phenomenon. Familismo and simpatia, both Hispanic cultural values, could be contributing factors in the phenomenon to be investigated, as are the lack of awareness of available services, and available services that are inhospitable.;Nine participants representing eight families of Mexican descent were interviewed by the researcher utilizing an open-ended format. The participants described their experience in making the decision to place their children in informal kinship care. Phenomenological analysis of the participant interviews yielded four major themes that were the components of the overarching value of familismo. The four component themes are: La familia y la sangre, sacrificios, simpatia, and personalismo and respeto. The theme of la familia and la sangre describe the mechanics of familismo by explaining the Mexican social construction of the synonyms of familia and sangre as part of an allocentric self, as well as the strong belief that familia is the best alternative for children who need placement. The theme of sacrificios describes the great sacrifices that kinship caregivers are willing to undertake for the well-being of the family. Simpatia is another theme that addresses the facilitation of utilizing the familia as a source of support by minimizing social stigma and ensuring adequate care for the children. Finally, personalismo and respeto is a theme that explains the culturally insensitive service delivery system that kinship caregivers must face; thus, increasing the difficulty in an already difficult task.;The study indicates that the decision making process for child placement in families of Mexican descent is complex, emotional, and involves great self-sacrifice. The decision making process itself involves facing issues of familismo , specifically the components of la familia y la sangre, sacrificios, simpatia, personalismo and respeto. Additionally the study implies that although the process of caring for family members involves great sacrificios, it also may provide great personal satisfaction to the providers. Furthermore, the study points out the inadequacy of the current system of care available to informal kinship caregivers. The results from this study may inform the creation and/or implementation of culturally sensitive programs to families of Mexican descent to have their needs met effectively. |
