A Quantitative Analysis of "Ataque de Nervios" in Puerto Rico: Further Examination of a Cultural Syndrome.

The authors present a quantitative analysis and assessment of the symptoms of ataque de nervios. A sample of 121 individuals living in Puerto Rico provided qualitative and structured data on ataques de nervios and psychiatric correlates. A total of 77 participants reported having an ataque de nervios during their lifetimes. Their reports of symptoms associated with the ataque-episode were analyzed using factor analysis. Two dimensions emerged from the analysis, representing respectively internalizing and externalizing experiences. Results sustained the heterogeneity of ataque de nervios with a marked anxiety component. The authors discuss results in the context of classification and understanding of ataques de nervios and a model for studying cultural variance among cultural syndromes.