Theory and practice in matching treatment to the special characteristics and problems of Cuban immigrants

Mutuality of patient-therapist expectations for treatment can be attained by adapting treatment to the special characteristics and focusing treatment on the unique problems of client populations. Culturally sensitive treatment is defined as a treatment mode built on a set of therapeutic assumptions that complements the patients' basic value structure. The implications for treatment of the Cuban immigrants' preference for lineality in interpersonal relationships, a present-time orientation, a doing activity orientation, and subjugation to natural and environmental conditions are discussed. Acculturation problems facing Cuban immigrant familes and their implications for treatment are also discussed. The authors conclude that Ecological Structural Family Therapy is a treatment of choice for acculturation-related dysfunctions of Cuban immigrant families.