Handbook of U.S. Latino Psychology : Developmental and Community-Based Perspectives

**__Congratulations to Aida Hurtado and Karina Cervantez- winners of the 2009 Women of Color Psychologies Award! This award, given by the Association of Women in Psychology Association, is voted on by AWP members for contributions of new knowledge and importance to the advancement of the psychology of women of color.__**Offering broad coverage of all U.S. Latino groups, this volume synthesizes cutting-edge research and methodological advances and provides culturally sophisticated information that can be used by researchers, policy makers, and practitioners. The editors and contributing authors summarize theories and conceptual models that can further our understanding of the development and adaptation of U.S. Latino populations. In addition, they focus on the importance of cultural sensitivity and competence in research and intervention approaches and how to achieve it.**Key Features**- Highlights the normative development and strengths of U.S. Latino populations - Elaborates on the heterogeneity of Latinos in that it does not assume that all Latino populations, and the contexts of their development, are identical. - Emphasizes on cultural sensitivity and competence at all levels- Focuses on the importance of cultural identity amongst Latinos and its contribution to healthy developmental outcomes. Congratulations to Aida Hurtado and Karina Cervantez- winners of the 2009 Women of Color Psychologies Award! This award, given by the Association of Women in Psychology Association, is voted on by AWP members for contributions of new knowledge and importance to the advancement of the psychology of women of color. Offering broad coverage of all U.S. Latino groups, this volume synthesizes cutting-edge research and methodological advances and provides culturally sophisticated information that can be used by researchers, policy makers, and practitioners. The editors and contributing authors summarize theories and conceptual models that can further our understanding of the development and adaptation of U.S. Latino populations. In addition, they focus on the importance of cultural sensitivity and competence in research and intervention approaches and how to achieve it. Key Features - Highlights the normative development and strengths of U.S. Latino populations - Elaborates on the heterogeneity of Latinos in that it does not assume that all Latino populations, and the contexts of their development, are identical. - Emphasizes on cultural sensitivity and competence at all levels- Focuses on the importance of cultural identity amongst Latinos and its contribution to healthy developmental outcomes. In an evolutionary step away from a monolithic "Hispanic psychology," this volume is introduced by Villarruel (family and child ecology, Michigan State U.) as the first in a young field that recognizes the heterogeneity of the growing Latino population in the U.S. and studies each group in terms of its distinct culture, history, and needs. In two dozen chapters, authors of various Latino backgrounds discuss the: roots of the field; legacy of such pioneers as Julian Samora; development of feminist Latina psychology; and needs of a population which often suffers from acculturation stress and higher disease risks, yet shies away from mental health services because of dominant culture and immigration issues. Recommendations for future research are made.