Publisher's Synopsis
Despite evidence showing Latinos to be among the fastest growing populations in the US, very few social work texts explicitly address practice with Latino individuals, families, and communities. CSWE curriculum guidelines mandate that students acquire cultural competence across their coursework, and there are several books available that focus on multicultural practice, but only one outdated book on Latinos in particular. Beginning with a comprehensive definition and demographic map of Latinos, Latino culture, and a cultural asset paradigm, the book identifies strategies for designing culturally relevant programs and services. Chapters highlight health and social concernsincluding issues surrounding gender, religion, language, immigration, substance abuse, health conditions, etc.but more importantly, they outline a practice framework that places cultural assets at the center. The book will provide a rich paradigm for understanding perspectives on culture, access, assets, and how they intersect to inform best practices. The step-by-step framework guides students through six stages: pre-contact assessment, initial contact and asset identification, resource mapping, relationship building, intervention, and evaluation. Each stage is heavily grounded in theoretical and socio-political considerations with particular attention to thinking critically about selecting best practices and how to sustain an evidence-based practice. Case studies, summary lessons, and key ideas make this an outstanding resource for students and professionals alike.
