Cultural Implications for Public Health Policy for Pregnant Hispanic Adolescents
Author: Smith, Peggy B.
Date Published: 1995
This paper examines factors associated with pregnancy among first and second generation Hispanic youth. Birth rates of Hispanic teens are high in both groups although second generation teens have rates of nonmarital births similar to other teens in the United States. Regardless of generational status, Hispanic youth have religious, language, and cultural values that reflect the norms of large families and the value of family ties. The public health system could be used more effectively if there were sensitivity to the importance of cultural norms of Hispanic families, specifically family decision making. This paper explores these issues and provides some suggestions for accessible family planning and maternal health services.
Date Published: 1995
This paper examines factors associated with pregnancy among first and second generation Hispanic youth. Birth rates of Hispanic teens are high in both groups although second generation teens have rates of nonmarital births similar to other teens in the United States. Regardless of generational status, Hispanic youth have religious, language, and cultural values that reflect the norms of large families and the value of family ties. The public health system could be used more effectively if there were sensitivity to the importance of cultural norms of Hispanic families, specifically family decision making. This paper explores these issues and provides some suggestions for accessible family planning and maternal health services.
