The effects of culture-compatible intervention on the utilization of mental health services by minority clients.
This study examined the relationship between a culture-compatible approach to mental health service and utilization as measured by dropout and total number of outpatient visits. The sample (N = 300) was 23.5% Mexican, 22.8% White, 18.1% Black, 17.1% Vietnamese, 16.8% Pilipino, and 1.7% other ethnic group. A culture-compatible approach was found to be effective in increasing utilization. Three culture-compatibility components were the best predictors of dropout status: language match of therapists and clients, ethnic/racial match of therapists and clients, and agency location in the ethnic/racial community. Pharmacotherapy, education, previous treatment and a diagnosis of psychosis were significantly related to remaining in therapy.
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001071:Appointments and Schedules; D002140:California; D003156:Community Mental Health Services / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D003256:Community Participation; D003466:Cultural Characteristics; D003469:Culture; D005196:Family Therapy; D005260:Female; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D007802:Language; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D008913:Minority Groups / Q000523:psychology*; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D011614:Psychotherapy, Brief; D012017:Referral and Consultation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data