10.1177/0733464804271281Journal of Applied GerontologyRamos / Stress Among Puerto Ricans Culture, Ethnicity, and Caregiver Stress Among Puerto Ricans

This study explored the stress process in a sample of Puerto Ricans (N = 68) caring for older rel-atives and examined the caregiver role in light of ethnocultural variables. Focus groups were conducted in Spanish in community settings. Six broad, open-ended questions asked about (a) caregiving stressors, (b) appraisal of these stressors, and (c) coping. Participants were primarily women of low socioeconomic status and acculturation. Ethnocultural factors appeared to shape the qualitative nature of the stress process. The practice of traditional familism norms of filial responsibility appeared to be especially challenging, given the multiple stressors associated with ethnic minority status. The role of the family as a support system was not clear. Fatalism and reli-gion appeared to greatly influence appraisal and coping. Catholic and Pentecostal differences were noted in attitudes about stressors and coping strategies. Suggestions for applying findings to practice are presented. Implications for research and policy are discussed