Understanding how cultural beliefs affect mental health in Latina Americans
Official title: Examining Perceived Familial and Self-Endorsement of Marianismo Cultural Script Discrepancies as Mental Health Risk Factors in Latina Americans
Funded at University of Houston · NIH-10976430 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $36,978 |
| NIH project number | 5F31MD017957-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10976430 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are Latina American adults who experience mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety.
✕Less likely to help
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.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martinez, Anjelica Mercedes — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Martinez, Anjelica Mercedes
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.