To Be a Citizen: An Integrative Literature Review of Mexican American Parents and Their Struggle Assimilating to U.S. Culture

Abstract

The Mexican population is one of the most disadvantaged groups in the United States facing higher rates of poverty, lower educational levels, poorer health outcomes, and lower naturalization rates (Alonso, 2016). The Mexican American population encounters multiple adversities assimilating to U.S. cultures such as acculturation stress, language barriers, cultural differences, financial insecurity, limited educational opportunities, discrimination, and other systemic oppressions (Cervantes et al., 1991). Research exists that addresses the role art therapy plays in the treatment of these multiple adversities; however, minimal research emphasizes the challenges Mexican American parents face assimilating to the U.S. An integrative literature review was conducted to identify a culturally competent framework for Mexican American parents participating in art therapy. A total of four articles were found discussing art therapy and the Hispanic/Latino population. Of the four articles, only one article discussed art therapy and Mexican Americans. None of the resources specifically focused on the needs of Mexican American parents in art therapy. Recommendations for future research were made in response to the themes identified in the literature, such as the need to identify the needs and challenges Mexican American parents face increasing training for culturally competent and bilingual therapists, and an investigation of effective materials, directives, and therapeutic approaches for the population. Finally, opportunities were identified to create an effective framework for family therapy that involves Mexican American parents struggling with acculturation.