Book

Social change and personality in a Puerto Rican agrarian reform community

Northwestern University PressEvanston, Ill. • Published In 1973 • Pages:

By: Seda Bonilla, Eduardo.

Abstract
This is a study of social changes in 'Tipán' (a pseudonym) from 1948-1961. It is based on research conducted in 1948 as part of an island-wide research project directed by Julian H. Steward (1: Steward et al.) and a follow-up study from 1959 through 1961. Of particular importance in this work are the changes taking place in the patterns of social interaction in the community, such as in the close network of family and other intracommunity relationships, and in psychological and 'personality' factors (pp. 8-9). After a general introduction Seda Bonilla examines the microcosm of 'Tipán' within the context of Puerto Rican society, stressing the changes that have taken place. Additional data focus on maladjustments in the community. Spiritism in Tipán is given extensive coverage. Utilizing concepts from the writings of Robert K. Merton, Eric Fromm, Karen Horney and others, Seda Bonilla analyzes spiritist beliefs and practices in terms of the functions they serve in the lives of their practitioners. The study concludes with an analysis of patronage politics in Puerto Rico.
Subjects
Life history materials
Sociocultural trends
Ethos
Functional and adaptational interpretations
Real property
Income and demand
Ownership and control of capital
Status, role, and prestige
Political behavior
Exploitation
Sorcery
Magical and mental therapy
Shamans and psychotherapists
General character of religion
Status of adolescents
Adolescent activities
Research methods
Economic planning and development
culture
Puerto Ricans (Island)
HRAF PubDate
2012
Region
Middle America and the Caribbean
Sub Region
Caribbean
Document Type
Book
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle; 1992, 2012
Field Date
1948, 1959-1961
Coverage Date
1948-1961
Coverage Place
Puerto Rico
Notes
[by] Eduardo Seda
Translation of Interacción social y personalidad en una comunidad de Puerto Rico.
Includes bibliographical references (p. 179-184) and index
LCCN
72076262
LCSH
Puerto Rico--Rural conditions