Dr. Torres research interests focus on issues of mental health disparities or the psychological difficulties experienced by members of underrepresented groups. This work has examined the role socio- and psychocultural factors have on adaptive functioning. Dr. Torres has investigated the influence of the cultural adaptation process as it relates to the experience of depression and other mental health outcomes among Latino populations. This has included determining the resources and risk factors that are likely to impact psychological well-being. Additionally, this line of research seeks to understand broader socioenvironmental factors, such as perceived discrimination and prejudice, as well as help-seeking behaviors and barriers to treatment utilization among ethnic minority groups.
Our research on mental health disparities is funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). One ongoing research project is to examine Latino Intercultural Competence, or the group-specific skills needed for effective cultural adaptation, and its relation to psychological health. Another project has involved investigating the ways Latinos cope with different types of race-related stressors. This particular line of research has used a daily diary methodology which tracks individuals over a two-week period in terms of immediate stressors, matching coping skills, and mental health outcomes.
Education
Ph.D., Clinical Psychology, Department of Psychological Sciences, Purdue University
Clinical Internship, Center for Multicultural Training in Psychology, Boston University Medical Center
Phone: (414) 288-5439
Lucas.Torres@marquette.edu
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