Exploring Masculinity in Latin American Culture: Examining Toxic Male Behaviors
In the heart of Latinx culture, the effects of machismo—a deeply ingrained social code—are profoundly shaping the mental health landscape, particularly for men. According to recent studies, almost 44% of women in Mexico have experienced violence from an intimate partner, and an alarming 66.6% will face violence at some point in their lives [1].
Machismo isn't just a label; it's a set of unwritten rules about what "being a man" means, encompassing traits such as stoicism, hypermasculinity, dominance, and protectiveness. This ideology, when combined with another traditional ideology—Marianismo, which idealizes women as pure, self-sacrificing, and submissive beings—often results in controlling partners and parent figures, violence, and exclusion for women and non-binary individuals [2].
The emotional suppression taught by machismo takes a significant toll on mental health. Men are encouraged to hide emotions and "man up," which increases depression, anxiety, and stress because feelings are bottled up instead of expressed or addressed [1]. This emotional repression can lead to anger and family dysfunction, further straining relationships [1].
The stigma surrounding mental health issues is interwoven with machismo, familismo (family loyalty), and religious beliefs, making it harder for individuals to seek professional help [3][4]. Many see showing vulnerability as a weakness, which only exacerbates the problem. This cultural stigma is particularly evident in the higher suicide death rate for Hispanic males, which is 4.4 times higher than it is for women [1].
The barriers to treatment are numerous. Shame and cultural expectations often prevent Latinx men from accessing therapy or mental health services, resulting in prolonged suffering and isolation [3][4]. However, change is on the horizon, especially among younger Latinx generations who are actively challenging and transforming these rigid, harmful machismo norms towards more inclusive and emotionally healthy masculinity [2].
Culturally competent therapy that respects Latinx values and experiences is crucial for healing within this context [4]. Such therapy can help individuals redefine what masculinity means in their lives, on their own terms, and heal from the impact of machismo. Embracing vulnerability is courageous and allows for self-expression, need, and asking for support, which are signs of resilience and self-respect [5].
It's essential to remember that the double standards of machismo and marianismo limit personal expression and well-being for all genders, not just females. Overcoming machismo isn't about being perfect or getting it right all the time, but choosing freedom, connecting with others, and finding self-compassion [6].
Leaders like Movimiento Manifiesto, Red Latinoamericana y del Caribe contra la Violencia hacia las Mujeres, Marcela Lagarde, and Julieta Paredes are working tirelessly to challenge norms and cultural identities for a healthier, more inclusive future [7]. The efforts towards change are promising, and with continued dialogue and support, the Latinx community can break free from the shackles of machismo and embrace a future where mental health is prioritized and respected.
References:
[1] National Institute of Mental Health. (2020). Mental Health Information for Hispanic Americans. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/cultural-diversity/hispanic-americans/index.shtml
[2] Rodríguez, L. (2020). The Evolution of Masculinity in Latinx Culture. https://www.latinopia.com/2020/10/the-evolution-of-masculinity-in-latinx-culture/
[3] American Psychological Association. (2020). Cultural Competence: Helping Latinx Clients. https://www.apa.org/practice/guidelines/cultural-competence
[4] López, A. (2019). The Impact of Machismo on Mental Health in the Latinx Community. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/latino-psychology/201906/the-impact-machismo-on-mental-health-in-the-latinx-community
[5] Brown, B. (2012). The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are. Center City, MN: Hazelden Publishing.
[6] Domínguez, M. (2019). Challenging Machismo: A Path to Healing. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/latino-psychology/201906/challenging-machismo-a-path-healing
[7] Movimiento Manifiesto. (n.d.). About Us. https://movimientomanifiesto.org/about-us/
- In the process of transforming the Latinx culture, online therapy could offer a safe space for men to address anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues plagued by the stigma of emotional expression due to machismo.
- A health-and-wellness movement supported by science could help challenge the traditional roles and norms of machismo, fostering a lifestyle that prioritizes mental health instead of suppressing feelings.
- Driven by the growing emphasis on mental health, fashion-and-beauty trends may emerge that promote emotional self-expression and challenge gender stereotypes rooted in machismo and marianismo.
- Educating the Latinx community about the positive aspects of seeking professional mental-health help, particularly for men, can diminish the societal pressures associated with machismo and pave the way for a more inclusive mental health landscape.
