The samples contained different types of Latinos. This element adds to the strength of the work as the theorized differences between groups could be examined statistically.
In a general manner the study examines factors that are useful in determining the success of second generation immigrants. The author suggests that the work can be useful as a test of the Garcia Coll et al. model of self-esteem. The study also calls into question the value of the home environment in the determination of global self-esteem. It should be noted that the work does not adequately measure the cultural elements of the Latino experience.
The study could have greater usefulness if a focus group was added to the data collection. The focus group data could help to explain why there was no discernable relationship between home environment and global self-esteem. This is particularly important since the lack of a relationship appears counterintuitive....
While there were no indications of overt biases, the focus of the work may suggest that the author is at the very least moved to research Hispanic problems.
The overall tone and language used in the study made it easy to read and follow. The author avoided cliches and the flow of the prose presented a refreshing element to research work. This aspect did not diminish the scholarly nature of the work and was an enhancement to the piece. It was interesting though that there was no use of Spanish in the work, since it was designed for a predominantly Spanish speaking audience. The study demonstrated the clear need to examine the role of cultural differences in the development of self-esteem. Culture is an important consideration in many other aspects of the human experience. When the issue of culture is conjoined with that of immigration the result is a situation where traditional issues become reconfigured in new and diverse patterns.
