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Development and evaluation of a Mexican immigrant family support program
J M Cowell1, D B McNaughton, S Ailey
1Rush University, College of Nursing, Chicago, IL, USA.
Summary
The Mexican American Problem Solving (MAPS) program improved mental health for immigrant families. This intervention demonstrated significant positive outcomes for mothers and children needing mental health support.
Area of Science:
- * Public Health
- * Child Psychology
- * Family Medicine
Background:
- * Immigrant children faced a healthcare access crisis in 1998, as reported to Congress.
- * Significant mental health disparities exist within vulnerable populations.
- * Culturally specific interventions are crucial for addressing family well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- * To develop, implement, and evaluate a culturally tailored intervention for Mexican American families.
- * To address the mental health needs of immigrant children and their families.
- * To assess the efficacy of the Mexican American Problem Solving (MAPS) program.
Main Methods:
- * Phase 1: Focus groups to identify family concerns and preferred intervention strategies.
- * Phase 2: Instrument and prevalence assessments to evaluate mental health status.
- * Phase 3: Intervention testing to measure program effectiveness.
Main Results:
- * High rates of mental health concerns identified: 67% of mothers and 59% of children required referral.
- * Participants reported positive perceptions of the Mexican American Problem Solving (MAPS) program.
- * Significant improvements in mental health scores were observed post-intervention.
Conclusions:
- * The Mexican American Problem Solving (MAPS) program is an effective intervention for improving family mental health.
- * Culturally adapted programs can successfully address mental health disparities in immigrant communities.
- * Early identification and intervention are critical for the mental well-being of immigrant families.