چکیده (انگلیسی):

In order for the field of psychology in the United States to maintain its relevance and validity,it must become more inclusive in its theory and research of Latinos, who are now the largest “minority”group in the nation. In particular, due to immigration and birth rates, Mexican Americans are the largestand fastest growing segment of the Latino population. This paper addresses some of the most significanthistorical and socio-cultural factors contributing to the psychological nature and wellbeing of MexicanAmericans. These factors should be understood and used to guide research and theory in order to make thediscipline of psychology relevant for Mexican Americans. The concept of mestizaje is used to explain thebiological and cultural mixing constituting the diverse origins of the Mexican people. Immigration to theU.S. is described in terms of selective socio-cultural variables giving rise to a diverse Mexican Americanculture that is resistant to complete assimilation. Within a U.S. context, the constructs of generational status,acculturation, and biculturalism are used to explain the socio-cultural adaptation of MexicanAmericans. The special role of children in immigrant families as language and cultural brokers are alsodiscussed, and used to explain the adjustment of Mexican American families.