4/1/2021 Grand Rounds

Esteban Toledo-Carrión, M.D.
Assistant Professor, Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine
Addiction Psychiatrist, Department of Psychiatry, Boston Medical Center

The term “Latinx” aims to encapsulate an extremely diverse population, including immigrants from countries that span an entire continent who speak a variety of languages, as well as U.S.-born descendants. These subgroups come to treatment with vastly different backgrounds, as well as some unifying experiences mainly centered around immigration. When referred to monolithically as “Latinx” with little to no consideration of these factors, a culturally-appropriate treatment approach is extremely challenging. This session will focus on the dialectic between difference and universality within the Latinx population: Background will be provided to enhance understanding of how the self-perception and psychology of Latinx has been shaped by colonialism, Latin America’s historical relationship to the U.S. and the immigration experience. This broader understanding of the sociocultural, historical and psychological contexts of Latinx patients will create new opportunities to improve our care of this population.

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe the psychological ramifications of colonialism and the historical relationship between Latin American countries and the U.S.

2. Provide context about the meaning of becoming an immigrant

3. Discuss potential approaches that may enhance treatment for Latinx patients