Understanding how cultural beliefs affect mental health in Latina Americans

Examining Perceived Familial and Self-Endorsement of Marianismo Cultural Script Discrepancies as Mental Health Risk Factors in Latina Americans

NIH-funded research University of Houston · NIH-10976430

This study looks at how the cultural belief of marianismo, which focuses on family roles, affects the mental health of Latina Americans by exploring the tension between family expectations and personal wishes, and it aims to understand how this can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Houston NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Houston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10976430 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of marianismo, a cultural belief system emphasizing familial roles, on the mental health of Latina Americans. It explores how discrepancies between familial expectations and personal desires can lead to increased symptoms of depression and anxiety. By applying Basic Psychological Needs Theory, the study aims to identify the relational dynamics that contribute to these mental health challenges. Participants will be assessed on their experiences with familial support and personal endorsement of marianismo to understand its dual role as both a protective and risk factor.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Latina American adults who experience mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as Latina or do not experience conflicts related to familial expectations and personal desires may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health interventions tailored for Latina Americans by addressing cultural factors that influence their well-being.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that cultural beliefs significantly impact mental health outcomes, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Houston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.