Understanding Service Utilization Disparities and Depression in Latinos: The Role of Fatalismo

Research demonstrates a disparity between need and utilization of mental health services for Latinos. Cultural variations in perceptions of mental illness may be partially responsible for this discrepancy. Past research with Latinos has shown links between fatalismo, a cultural value similar to external locus of control, and both depression and lower service utilization in medical care, while links to psychiatric care have not been investigated. The current study therefore aimed to explore the associations between fatalismo, depression, and past year mental health service utilization by Latinos. A community sample of 83 Latino adults were recruited during local cultural events. Participants completed self-report measures of depression, fatalism, and past year service utilization. Analyses using structural equation modeling showed fatalismo was directly negatively related to past year medical service utilization (β = -.35). In contrast, the link between fatalismo and past year mental health service utilization was mediated by self-reported depressive symptoms (indirect β = .19, p < .001). We conclude that while fatalismo is associated with depression in Latinos, other barriers likely serve as more salient deterrents of service utilization.