Traditional Gender Roles of Men and Women in Hispanic Culture

3 Roles Hispanic Culture There are three gender-specific roles that are part of the traditional Hispanic experience. These include Marianismo (female self-sacrifice), Hembrismo (femaleness), and Machismo (male self-respect and responsibility)

“The Macho Man” Machismo, also known as the macho man, defines behaviors that men are taught to adhere to like, being dominant and independent.  The machismo role views the man as being in charge of the family. They do not show weakness. They are the protector and provider of the home.

Female Roles Marianismo defines behaviors of women as being submissive and dependent on the male.  Role stresses the importance of caring for their children.  The housewife Hembrismo role focuses on a female’s strength to persevere through life’s obstacles. Single mother Independent woman

Female Roles Because it is important for Hispanic woman to have a family, the Hembrismo role is not as accepted with many Hispanics. 

Boys & Girls Boys are brought up to work hard and are educated on the importance of providing for their family when they grow up.  Girls on the other hand, learn feminine traits and are taught the importance having children when they grow up when their role changes to being a wife and mother.