This course will explore the psychological issues affecting Hispanic families in the United States, within the context of pastoral ministry. Students will learn about generational issues, the concept of the identified patient, and the common stressors faced by families in transition. Students will be challenged to understand their own family dynamics by articulating the behavioral scripts from their cultural heritage. The focus of the class will be interactive and applied to ministry.
Clergy are the most sought after people during times of family transitions.
Hispanic families face the added stressor of defining their cultural identity in a context where they are an ethnic and, in many cases, a linguistic minority. Therefore the role of the minister in aiding these families through the process of acculturation is crucial, particularly among the second generation or the children of the immigrant parents. There will be five invited guests to present on topics of their expertise and conduct laboratory sessions. A Guide to Multicultural Practice. Guilford Press, 1999.