NSP3185-Scholarly Paper - Hispanic Culture

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NSP3185-Scholarly Paper: Hispanic Culture Name Department Course Professor Date

1 Abstract The Hispanic culture in the United States is the topic of this research, which analyzes the Hispanic perspective on health and medicine in the United States. This article examines Hispanic American families and communities through the lens of their historical migration to the United States. The social norms, values, and perspectives of the Spanish community are dissected with respect to conception, birth, and upbringing of children; physical and mental health; medical professionals; time and space; food and drink; and the care of the aged and the dying. The effects of cultural beliefs, values, and attitudes on the delivery of culturally sensitive healthcare are also examined, as are the financial implications of doing so. The report concludes by outlining culturally sensitive solutions that may be used to address the identified requirements.

2 Introduction Growing numbers of Hispanics are making their culture one of the most pervasive and dynamic in the United States. This is a cultural group made up of people who have Spanish, Mexican, Central American, South American, or Caribbean ancestry. The Hispanic population in the United States is projected to reach over 111 million by 2060 (US Census Bureau, 2018). Because of this, Hispanics would become a major minority in the United States' population. Understanding the role of Spanish culture in how they are treated is crucial. Cultural beliefs, norms, and perspectives may impact individuals' access to, use of, and outcomes from healthcare (Latif, 2020). Identifying the specific requirements of the Hispanic population is the first step in developing culturally competent treatment plans that take into account cultural norms and values, such as the use of therapies that are respectful and acceptable within the community. Health care projects have a far better chance of being widely adopted and embraced if the Spanish community is included from the very beginning. As such, recognizing and respecting the cultural values and attitudes of the Hispanic community is essential to enable healthcare providers deliver high-quality care that addresses the unique healthcare needs and challenges of this population. Cultural Background The traditions, beliefs, and practices of the Hispanic people have given rise to a unique and colorful culture. Those who speak Spanish as their native language are known as Hispanics. Hispanics come from places like Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Central and South America (Noe-Bustamante, 2019). Everything from the cuisine to the music to the art to the language reflects the mingling of Indigenous, European, and African influences on the culture. History of colonization is deeply ingrained in Spanish culture, as it was in the 16th century when Spain

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3 conquered and colonized the majority of Latin America (Eckler, 2020). Spanish language, Catholicism, and culture were pushed on the Indigenous people, resulting in a combination of the two. Furthermore, the slave trade brought African people to South America, who brought their culture with them (Mintz, 2009). To provide for their families, many Hispanics have made the journey to the United States. Hispanic immigration to the United States started in the late 19th century and is still going strong. Hispanics make up around 18% of the entire population of the United States and are therefore the biggest minority group there (Census.gov, 2020). Several distinct peoples and traditions have come together to form what we know as Hispanic culture in the United States. There is a distinct blending of traditions and practices from their own land and the United States. Country or countries of origin – history of migration to the US Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, Cubans, Dominicans, and other Central and South Americans are just few of the many nations from whom Hispanics in the United States hail (Noe- Bustamante, 2019). Hundreds of thousands of Mexicans and Puerto Ricans arrived in the United States in the 19th century in search of economic opportunity and a higher standard of living. As part of the Bracero program, many Mexicans came to the United States in the early twentieth century to work in agricultural (Partida, 2022). Many of the employees that arrived via this program remained in the United States, and it persisted until the 1960s. Political unrest in Cuba in the 1950s and 1960s prompted a large emigration of Cubans to the United States, notably to Miami, Florida. Because of civil conflicts and political unrest, many people fled to the United States in the 1960s and 1970s (Lamrani, 2021). Many people have continued to immigrate to the United States from Hispanic nations ever since, in search of greater economic prospects and political stability. The majority of Hispanic immigrants to the United States are illegal, and their

4 legal status has been the subject of considerable discussion and controversy. Despite this, Spanish culture in the United States continues to flourish, making enormous contributions to American life in the fields of cuisine, music, and the arts. Family and community structure and hierarchies The importance of family and community is emphasized heavily in Spanish society. Families are vast and extended because they are seen as the backbone of society. In many families, extended family members such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins all reside in close proximity to one another and maintain strong relationships (Canún, 2022). The father is traditionally the head of the family, while the woman takes care of the home and the kids. Gender roles are changing, though, and many households now hold more progressive views. Hispanics place a premium on showing deference to those in positions of power, and their social structures reflect this. People are required to respect people in authority, including clergy, teachers, and community elders, since they are considered as an extension of one's own family. Those who have lived longer are looked up to and asked for guidance and counsel often. The demands of the collective, rather than those of the individual, take precedence in Spanish society (Canún, 2022). In this collectivist society, helping one another out is highly valued. The Spanish community often gathers to celebrate significant events and milestones, such as quinceaeras, marriages, and religious festivals, and is well-known for its friendliness and kindness for visitors and immigrants. Hispanics, as a whole, place a premium on family and community, and this emphasis, together with a strong sense of collectivism and reverence for authority and elders, helps to sustain and strengthen the culture. Social practices

5 Hispanic community values and traditions are heavily influenced by the norms and customs of its members. Religious observance, and Catholicism in particular, is highly valued in Hispanic communities (CDC, 2018). As a means of strengthening social bonds and preserving cultural norms, religion is highly valued. The community as a whole usually comes together for major life events like baptisms, first communions, and weddings because of the importance of the church and religious festivals. The value of friends and family is another fundamental aspect of society. Sharing a meal or a special occasion with loved ones is a treasured part of socialising and bonding with others. Quinceaeras, a type of family reunion, are both a social milestone and a rite of passage for young women. Traditional dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and tamales are popular examples of Hispanic cuisine and play an important role in Hispanic social practises. The act of cooking and eating together is a time-honored tradition that brings people together and preserves cultural heritage from one generation to the next. Hispanic cultural norms also heavily feature music and dance. Dance to Latin beats like salsa, merengue, and bachata is a common part of social events and gatherings. Attitudes and Beliefs Regarding: Pregnancy, Childbearing, and Child-Rearing In Hispanic culture, pregnancy and childbearing are viewed as blessings and are highly valued. Expectant mothers are often cared for by their families and community, and pregnancy is seen as a time of celebration. It is common for women to seek prenatal care from midwives, who are believed to provide more personalized care and attention (Medina, 2019). Child-rearing is also highly valued, and the family plays a significant role in the upbringing and care of children.

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6 Respect for elders is emphasized, and children are taught to respect and obey their parents and grandparents. Health (Preventative Health and Chronic Illness Care) Hispanics place a premium on preventative medicine, and they place a special emphasis on leading a healthy lifestyle via nutrition and exercise. Herbal teas and other natural medicines are frequently utilised to keep people healthy (Medina, 2019). Yet, many Hispanic communities suffer obstacles, such as a lack of health insurance or language challenges, that make it difficult for individuals to seek preventive treatment. While therapy for chronic illnesses is essential, some people may avoid doing so until their condition has worsened significantly. Mental Health Mental health is a growing concern in Hispanic culture, with high rates of depression and anxiety among Hispanic communities. However, there is often a stigma associated with mental illness, and seeking help may be seen as a sign of weakness or shame (Medina, 2019). Family support and traditional healers, such as curanderos or spiritual leaders, may be sought for mental health issues. Healthcare Providers In Hispanic culture, healthcare providers are highly respected and valued for their knowledge and expertise. However, there may be a lack of trust or understanding between patients and providers due to language barriers or cultural differences (Medina, 2019). Many Hispanic communities may prefer to seek care from providers who speak Spanish and understand Hispanic culture.

7 Time and Spatial Relationships Time is often viewed as fluid in Hispanic culture, and there may be a more relaxed approach to punctuality and deadlines. Personal relationships and connections are highly valued, and spatial relationships may reflect this (CDC, 2018). Homes may be open to visitors and community members, and personal space may be more limited than in other cultures. Dietary Practices Diet is an essential aspect of Hispanic culture, with a focus on traditional foods and home-cooked meals. There is a preference for fresh, whole foods, and mealtimes are often social events (Overcash & Reicks, 2021). However, there may be a higher prevalence of obesity and related health issues due to high-fat and high-carbohydrate traditional foods. Care of the Elderly In Hispanic culture, respect for elders is emphasized, and caring for elderly family members is often a family responsibility (Medina, 2019). Nursing homes or assisted living facilities may be viewed negatively, and many families prefer to care for elderly relatives at home. However, caregiving can be challenging, and there may be a need for respite care or support from community resources. Death and Dying Death is seen as a natural part of life in Hispanic culture, and funerals are often elaborate and involve the whole community. There may be a belief in an afterlife or spiritual continuation, and death is often viewed as a transition rather than an end (Falzarano et al., 2022). Family support and community involvement are essential during the grieving process.

8 Analysis of payment of services (mostly indigent care, insurance, etc.) Healthcare may be harder to come by in Hispanic neighbourhoods because of low incomes and a lack of health insurance. An increased need for safety-net hospitals and clinics that treat the poor and uninsured may emerge from this. Governments at all levels, as well as private contributions and grants, may help pay for medical treatment for the poor. Although the passage of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) has improved health insurance availability for many Americans, gaps in coverage remain for Hispanic populations. The Kaiser Family Foundation found that in 2019, 30% of nonelderly Hispanic individuals were uninsured, whereas just 13% of non-Hispanic white adults were without health coverage (Tolbert et al., 2020). Latinos have lower rates of health insurance coverage, which may be due in part to language hurdles and unfamiliarity with the healthcare system. It is possible that many people of Spanish descent would rather pay cash for healthcare than use their health insurance. This might be because people choose to use alternative treatments or do not understand how insurance works. Yet, for people with low financial means, out-of-pocket payments might be a barrier to receiving treatment. As there is often a combination of public and private financing sources, as well as cultural preferences and financial restrictions, paying for healthcare services in Hispanic communities may be complicated. To best serve their Hispanic patients, healthcare professionals should be cognizant of these considerations and make an effort to provide treatment that is both culturally competent and sensitive to the patients' socioeconomic status. Cultural Impact It is impossible to overstate the significance of cultural ideas, values, and attitudes when it comes to culturally competent healthcare delivery. Close relationships between families and a

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9 shared sense of responsibility for one another are cornerstones of Spanish society (Medina, 2019). For this reason, it is critical that medical professionals value family input. It is important to include and value input from family members while formulating treatment strategies. In addition, it is imperative that healthcare practitioners acknowledge the significance of language barriers and provide interpretation services to help patients completely comprehend all of their treatment choices. Hispanic patients need treatment that takes into account their culture's norms and practices. One aspect of this is learning about the folk medicine and home cures that Hispanic patients may employ. Clinicians also need to be cognizant of the potentially stigmatizing cultural views about mental health and try to dismantle this stigma while also recognizing the value of traditional healers and alternative treatments. Therefore, it is crucial for doctors and nurses to understand the value of respecting superiors in the Spanish community. When patients have faith in and regard for their doctors, they may be more inclined to follow their treatment programs and take their medications as prescribed. Open and honest communication, taking the time to listen to patients' problems, and factoring in patients' values and beliefs into treatment plans are all great ways to earn patients' confidence and develop a strong working relationship. Healthcare professionals must create strategies for culturally sensitive interventions in order to satisfy the specific requirements of their Hispanic patients. Some examples of such collaboration include the provision of language interpretation services, the incorporation of traditional healing techniques into standard treatment programmes, and the promotion of preventive care and education in conjunction with community groups. All patients, regardless of their ability to pay, should have access to high-quality healthcare, thus it is crucial to examine how lack of funds and lack of health insurance affects Hispanic patients specifically.

10 Conclusion In sum, Hispanic culture is multifaceted, having a long and distinguished past and distinctive practices. Culturally responsive healthcare requires an understanding of the patient population's cultural values, beliefs, and attitudes. Access to healthcare may be hampered for Hispanics due to linguistic, financial, and cultural constraints. Providers of healthcare need to be aware of these issues and actively endeavor to find solutions so that all patients may get quality treatment. The Spanish culture has a hierarchical structure that promotes respect for elders and conventional gender roles, and it puts a high priority on family and community. Cultural attitudes and practices, such as the value of big families and the primacy of the mother in childcare, have an important role in shaping individuals' perspectives on pregnancy, childbirth, and childrearing. In light of these perspectives, healthcare professionals must make an effort to provide treatment that is respectful to patients' cultural backgrounds and values. The health, mental health, and medical professionals that Spanish people use may all be seen through a different lens. Maybe cultural variables like the prevalence of spirituality and folk treatments have a role in shaping these perspectives. Providers of medical services owe it to their patients to keep these considerations in mind as they strive to provide treatment that is both effective and respectful of the patient's cultural background.

11 References Canún, N. (2022, January 19). The Powerful Role of Family in Hispanic Culture [Unlike U.S. Culture] . Homeschool Spanish Academy. https://www.spanish.academy/blog/the- powerful-role-of-family-in-hispanic-culture-unlike-u-s-culture/ CDC. (2018). Cultural Insights: Communicating with Hispanics/Latinos . Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthcommunication/pdf/audience/audienceinsight_culturalinsights .pdf Census.gov. (2020). U.S. Census Bureau QuickFacts: United States . Www.census.gov. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US/RHI725221 Eckler, C. (2020). Prevailing facets of Spanish colonialism: the roots of exploitation Prevailing facets of Spanish colonialism: the roots of exploitation and inequality in Latin America and inequality in Latin America . https://scholar.utc.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi? article=1289&context=honors-theses Falzarano, F., Winoker, H., Burke, R. V., Mendoza, J. A., Munoz, F., Tergas, A., Maciejewski, P. K., & Prigerson, H. G. (2022). Grief and Bereavement in the Latino/a Community: A Literature Synthesis and Directions for Future Research. Health Equity , 6 (1), 696–707. https://doi.org/10.1089/heq.2022.0031 Lamrani, S. (2021). Cuban emigration to the United States from 1860 to 2019: a statistical and comparative analysis. Études Caribéennes , 7 . https://doi.org/10.4000/etudescaribeennes.23031

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12 Latif, A. (2020). The Importance of Understanding Social and Cultural Norms in Delivering Quality Health Care—A Personal Experience Commentary. Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease , 5 (1), 22. https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed5010022 Medina, C. (2019). Belief and Traditions that impact the Latino Healthcare . https://www.medschool.lsuhsc.edu/physiology/docs/Belief%20and%20Traditions%20that %20impact%20the%20Latino%20Healthcare.pdf Mintz, S. (2009). Historical Context: Facts about the Slave Trade and Slavery | Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History . Www.gilderlehrman.org. https://www.gilderlehrman.org/history-resources/teacher-resources/historical-context- facts-about-slave-trade-and-slavery Noe-Bustamante, L. (2019, September 16). Key facts about U.S. Hispanics and their diverse heritage . Pew Research Center; Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/fact- tank/2019/09/16/key-facts-about-u-s-hispanics/ Overcash, F., & Reicks, M. (2021). Diet Quality and Eating Practices among Hispanic/Latino Men and Women: NHANES 2011–2016. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health , 18 (3), 1302. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph18031302 Partida, M. G. (2022, November 14). Research Guides: A Latinx Resource Guide: Civil Rights Cases and Events in the United States: 1942: Bracero Program . Guides.loc.gov; Library of Congress. https://guides.loc.gov/latinx-civil-rights/bracero-program

13 Tolbert, J., Orgera, K., & Damico, A. (2020, December 19). Key Facts about the Uninsured Population . Kaiser Family Foundation. https://www.kff.org/uninsured/issue-brief/key- facts-about-the-uninsured-population/ US Census Bureau. (2018, October 4). Hispanic Population to Reach 111 Million by 2060 . Census.gov. https://www.census.gov/library/visualizations/2018/comm/hispanic- projected-pop.html

NSP3185-Scholarly Paper - Hispanic Culture

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