EP21 Conversation Hour 04 - Contemporary Latinas - Strengths and Mental Health Stressors - Patricia Arredondo, EdD

Latina women tend to be stereotyped as fiery and fierce, yet the quality that consistently shines through is strength. Latinas continue to demonstrate their resilience and fortitude in every discipline and field such as science, the arts, law, politics, and of course, in their personal lives. Contemporary Latinas are moving beyond the expected roles rooted in propriety and appearances, and towards the empowered and inspiring women they are, expressing self-determination and leadership in many contexts. At the same time, there is the angst of finding, managing multiple identities, and responding to pulls from different corners of life. Familismo emphasizes on a strong family unit and Marianismo emphasizes purity, self-sacrifice, and nurturance of others. These internalized expectations can create internal struggles at key developmental decision-making points in life. Mental health stressors result but can be addressed with culturally responsive and feminist-centered language, tools, and support.

Learning Objectives

1. To identify Latinas’ strengths that emerge through cultural socialization

2. To identify the personal conflicts and stressors faced by contemporary Latinas

3. To recognize therapeutic skills that can serve to empower contemporary Latinas