Examining the Intersections of Culture, Gender, Romantic and Personal Relationships and Mental Illness Among Latinos with Schizophrenia and Their Family Care Givers

Background and Purpose: Research has demonstrated that romantic and intimate relationships among adults with a serious mental illness (SMI) are not addressed in mental health treatment services. In Latinos with SMI, factors such as religion, familism and hope have been found to be associated with a supportive family environment and less burden; however, other cultural factors such as traditional gender roles and stigma may have a counterproductive effect when addressing sensitive topics such as romantic relationships, intimacy and gender normative behavior. This study examined the intersections of culture, relationships, gender and mental illness within the perceptions of those with schizophrenia and their family caregivers.

Methods: Twelve in depth interviews were conducted and transcribed. The sample consisted of seven clients and five family members. Data came from an NIMH funded ethnographic study on family, sociocultural resources and strengths of Mexican immigrant clients with schizophrenia receiving services in community mental health centers and their family caregivers. Transcripts were analyzed using a template approach framed by intersectionality theory. Templates where then analyzed to identify possible areas of strength and disadvantage among and within categories.

Results: The intersectionality template revealed intersections of culture, gender and age that may place persons at a disadvantage. Perceptions and experiences within categories of age and being female where found to further compound experiences of social isolation and difficulty establishing romantic relationships for the person with schizophrenia and for the family caregiver.

Conclusions and Implications: Results indicate that the intersecting categories reveal perceptions and experiences of burden and disadvantages in social settings for both the client and their family member. For both types of participants, relational conflicts emerged as a consequence of the client’s illness. Several participants expressed an inability to maintain romantic relationships or avoid relationship conflict due to the responsibility of caring for a family member with schizophrenia, and a lack of support or understanding from their spouse or other significant members. These findings underscore the importance of utilizing an intersectional lens when addressing personal relationships in assessment and treatment services for Latinos with SMI and family members.