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Eight working assumptions are generated from the literature in three problem areas and evaluated with recently published quantitative data, paying particular attention to variation within the ethnic group. Assumptions that Mexican Americans have few emotional problems, primarily use a folk medical system, do not rely on clergymen for emotional support, and have negative attitudes toward mental health services are rejected. Two assumptions are qualified: Mexican Americans have some emotional problems at different rates than Anglos and some Mexican subgroups are relatively unaware of mental health services. There is confirmation of the Mexican American extended family support system and mental health policies which variously discourage utilization by Mexican Americans. Implications for mental health service delivery are discussed.

In a study of extended familism among Mexican Americans and Anglo Americans in three southern California cities, the Mexican Americans were found to have more kin in town, more frequent interaction with nearby relatives, and more exchange of mutual aid with kin. There is no indication that the traditional Mexican‐American extended family breaks down with urbanization, acculturation, or socioeconomic mobility. It is suggested that discrimination by the Anglo majority reinforces kin ties among Mexican Americans.

This article integrates empirical findings from research in two cultural groups in the United States: Chicanos and Appalachians. Factor analysis of survey data concerning ethnicity gathered in the two groups produced similar factor patterns indicating three general dimensions of ethnicity: ethnic culture, ethnic group membership, and ethnic identity. Ethnic culture is the component of ethnicity that refers to the pattern of behaviors and beliefs that sets a group apart from others. Ethnic group membership refers to the network of people with whom an individual is in contact, and the ethnic affiliation of those people and the groups they form. Ethnic identity encompasses the perceptions of and personal affiliation with ethnic groups and cultures. Specifically, ethnic identity consists of: the perception of differences among ethnic groups; the feelings of attachment to and pride in one ethnic group and cultural heritage as opposed to others; and, at least where there are perceived physical differences between groups, the perception of prejudice and discrimination against one's own ethnic group. The dimension of ethnic identity is illustrated in depth with case study data collected during the Chicano research.