Social Networks and Mental Health of Rural Latino Adolescents in North Florida

AbstractThere is limited research on mental health in rural Latino communities, particularly with adolescents. The aims of this study were to: 1) describe the evidence of social networks and mental health research in rural Latino communities and 2) illustrate themes related to the social networks and mental health depicted by rural Latino adolescents. A secondary data analysis study was performed, using data collected through semi-structured interviews (N=59) with adolescents, 11-17 years-old, living in three rural counties of North Florida. The interviews were conducted by community health workers (promotoras), in either Spanish or English; exploring family and community relations. NVivo 12 was used to aid in managing and thematically analyzing the data.  Major themes were analyzed as Protective and Risk factors for mental health. A social network framework was then created under these themes including Family, School, Outside Community and Immigration Policy as main categories. The findings of this study highlight the need for mental health promotion interventions with rural Latino adolescents and can be used to influence future studies of social networks and mental health.