The Garcia Family: Using a Structural Systems Approach with an Alcohol-Dependent Family

Abstract

The authors examine the impact of sociocultural and environmental stressors on alcohol abuse and dependence in the Hispanic family system. General characteristics of Hispanic culture emphasize gender and age hierarchies and stress cooperation, collectiveness, and strong intergenerational family ties. Given the cultural values of this population, a structural systems approach is proposed as an adjunct to other forms of treatment when working during the recovery process. As an illustrative guide, the primary author presents portions of an actual case study involving a multigenerational Hispanic stepfamily.