Gender Roles
Machismo and marianismo are central notions that tend to dictate interpersonal relationships, especially between the sexes. Machismo denotes masculinity as evidenced in physical prowess, aggression, attractiveness to women, and consumption of large quantities of alcohol, thereby commanding respect from others. This respect has many important dimensions in Hispanic culture. The term respeto refers to respect accorded persons in the culture based on age, social position, sex, and status. A person who shows appropriate respeto is seen as someone who has been well educated or well reared.
Hispanic Cultures
September 29th, 2009 — Uncategorized
Personalism
Hispanic cultures are known for placing great emphasis on interpersonal relationships and valuing warmth, closeness, and honest self disclosure . These values may dictate the choice of counselor more than credentials per se. As an interviewer, you might be surprised by the level of inquiry and interest in your personal life and tastes, but the intention is not invasiveness, it is simply connection. However, it is advisable to remain more formal initially, to signal the boundaries of the relationship. Using last names and acting with deliberate respect during the ?rst interview can help this process.
The Role of the Family
Similar to other cultures discussed in this chapter, family is extremely important to Hispanic people and is more broadly de?ned than traditional White American nuclear families. Family members have most likely been consulted before an individual comes for counseling; and in many cases, involving the family directly is helpful. There is a strong emphasis on the family’s needs and the needs of the group over the needs of the individual.