Perceptions of Family Cohesion: A Mixed Methodological Study Exploring the Relationship of Acculturation to Self-perceived Latino Family Function.

摘要

This study sought to identify the relationship between acculturation and self-perceived family cohesion, communication, and satisfaction in Latinos. A mixed methodological design was used with quantitative and qualitative measures. There were 51 participants used for this study who identified as Latino between the ages of 21 and 65 years. To test whether a correlation between acculturation and family cohesion, communication, and family satisfaction exists, the participants' acculturation scores from the Short Acculturation Scale for Hispanics (SASH) and percentile scores from the Fourth Edition of Family Adaptability Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES IV) of the other variables measured (family cohesion, family communication, and family satisfaction) were obtained. A Pearson's correlation test was conducted to examine the strength of a correlation between the identified variables. Results indicated there is a strong relationship between family cohesion and the level of family communication and satisfaction that exists. However, level of acculturation does not have a significant correlation to any of the variables of family cohesion, family communication, and family satisfaction. The qualitative data reflects participants' responses to the FACES IV and whether the statements accurately reflected their values and beliefs. The participants indicated that the statements in the assessment were reflective of some of their values, but also stated that there were some statements that were hard to understand at first glance and need more clarity. However, this did not appear to affect the outcome of the quantitative data.