Immigrant Latino Children and Families in Child Welfare: A Framework for Conducting a Cultural Assessment

Culturally competent practice with immigrant Latino children and families requires a thorough understanding of the impact that migration and acculturation has had on each family and how these experiences have contributed to their involvement in the child welfare system. The growth of the Latino immigrant population in the United States requires that child welfare agencies examine and adapt their practices to ensure effective response to the specific needs of this population. This article provides a framework for conducting a comprehensive cultural assessment with immigrant families in order to provide caseworkers with the information necessary to provide culturally relevant services that adequately respond to each family's unique circumstances and experiences.