Countertransference and its implementation in the treatment of a Hispanic adolescent boy

The literature on the psychotherapeutic treatment of Puerto Rican and Hispanic Americans primarily focuses on unique cultural characteristics that may affect the initial transference reaction. Cultural values and beliefs related to authoritarianism (Muñoz 1981), dependency (Bluestone and Vela 1982), espiritismo (Comas-Diaz 1981), etc., have been identified as important in shaping initial expectations and attitudes toward psychotherapy. Therapists have been advised to become familiar with and sensitive to such characteristics and their manifestations and to be honest with themselves and patients about their prejudices (Sue et al. 1981). Otherwise countertransference is not discussed in depth. The following case presentation of an intellectually gifted Puerto Rican boy, Regalado, will illustrate some of the countertransference problems, such as overidentification, class differences, and unresolved conflicts about minority group membership, which have been identified as disruptive to the therapeutic process (Griffith 1977). It is generally agreed that one must be more active in the treatment of minorities or poor people. Maduro (1982) recommends that in working with Latinos, dream analysis be consistently related to sociocultural issues and that the healthy or creative aspects of the unconscious be emphasized. He also recommends a warm and personal attitude and active participation in communicating and interacting with the patient.