Familismo

Among Latinos, family plays a central role and is a source of pride, identity, and support. Familismo is the term within the Latino culture that describes this family structure and the importance of family relationships. Familismo represents the beliefs and attitudes that operate within the family system. Intertwined with familismo are the values of respect (respeto) and trust (confianza). Family provides reciprocity or mutual support and is viewed as one of the foundational structures of the culture. Parents are highly valued and respected. The needs and concerns of the family supersede the needs of any individual family member; conversely, family members are expected to support each other when there is a problem and to resolve the situation as a family unit. The responsibility of the ...