Community Psychology and Ethnic Minority Populations

Abstract

(from the chapter) This chapter focuses on mental health service delivery among ethnic minority populations. The authors first review epidemiological data available on ethnic minorities. The nature and extent of psychological well-being and mental health are outlined. The implications of the epidemiological data for service delivery are also discussed, with special emphasis on equity in utilization. Social stressors particularly affecting minority groups are outlined. Some stressors are general, such as poverty; others are more particular, such as acculturation. Research to date tends to emphasize deficits rather than strengths of minority groups. Therefore, the authors highlight resources among people of color. Specifically, help-seeking, including the use of family, prayer, and folk healers as ways of coping are discussed. Service delivery is examined, with an emphasis on understanding issues that have been a particular focus of research. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2013 APA, all rights reserved).