Cultural Considerations in the Treatment of Latina Survivors of Sexual Assault

Abstract

The current review examines existing research investigating the impact of Latino cultural values on decisions to disclose, reactions to disclosures, help-seeking behaviors, and victim-blaming among Latina survivors of sexual assault (SA). These findings were used to identify culturally based, problematic beliefs about SA in the Latino community that can be internalized and thus contribute to the development of maladaptive posttraumatic cognitions for Latina survivors. Understanding values that are prevalent in the Latino community can help clinicians identify rigid applications that maintain cognitive distortions surrounding SA. Therefore, the current review provides a synthesis of research on cultural influences impacting posttraumatic cognitions for Latina survivors of SA and examines implications for culturally informed practice and research.

Keywords:

• Sexual assault
• cognitive distortions
• cultural values
• Latina

Disclosure statement

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Stephanie Amaya

Stephanie Amaya, M.A., is a doctoral candidate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Wyoming. She specializes in sexual violence and trauma among marginalized communities. Specifically, her research focuses on cultural variables impacting posttraumatic adjustment for Latina survivors of sexual assault.

Matt J. Gray

Matt J. Gray, PhD, is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Wyoming. His research activities generally focus on sexual assault and domestic violence treatment and prevention. He trained at the National Crime Victims Research and Treatment Center as well as the National Center for P T SD, Behavioral Sciences Division.