Central to Hispanic and Latino culture, devotion for family is core. We see it throughout depictions of Hispanic and Latino stories in TV, movies, books, and more. There is a strong sense of dedication and loyalty to family members, love and respect that is ingrained generationally, both within and beyond a single household. To refer to this cultural tenet, we use the word familismo.
The idea of familismo can be easily recognized in many ways—many communities relate to the idea of loving and supporting one’s family. But this central cultural value, at times could supersede levels of privacy and independence in regard to an individual’s decision making. In a broader sense, the inclination to find support in one’s family and extended network can make Hispanic and Latino American communities more insular.
What does Familismo look like in the community?
- Regular quality time with extended family. Latinos tend to celebrate together, for example on birthdays or during major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year.
- Multi-generational households. Latino families often share their family home with multiple generations. Families can be made up of grandparents, parents, children, as well as cousins and aunts/uncles.
- Support that involves distant family members and friends. Latinos turn to their extended families for support in times of need, such as when a relative is ill.
- High degree of influence from family members’ advice on personal decisions. Decisions regarding significant aspects of life, such as professional careers, employment and their social lives are frequently discussed with loved ones.
- Respect and reverence for elders within the family and greater community. Grandparents often take on roles in the family that reflects their years of experience and wisdom. Grandmothers specifically can act as a matriarch within the extended family, helping to maintain its unity. Their opinions are highly regarded by all family members.
So, what are the challenges that come with Familismo?
- Strain on individual financial decision making, as the individual is likely to weigh their family’s needs against the expenses of their individual needs.
- Strain on individual medical decision making, and on relationships with healthcare providers, as the individual is likely to weigh their family’s needs and convenience over the needs of their medical treatment.
- A perception that Hispanic American communities are in less need of aid and resources, due to their support of one another.
- Potential isolation from larger community settings and government services
- Potentially inhibited activism and civic participation
Familismo is a beautiful example in the Hispanic and Latino culture that can be linked to the bedrock of Hispanic American communities. However, it’s important that organizations, services, and programs maintain an awareness of the challenges that come with its influence, so that Hispanic Americans can be better accessed and served.
Do you want to learn more about Hispanics and Latinos, how to work with this wonderful community, and how to support the community programs that allow them to prosper? Consider reaching out to the National Hispanic Council on Aging Resource Center, by phone call or WhatsApp, at (202) 658 – 8664. The NHCOA Resource Center is a multilingual hub that educates and empowers community members and constituents with accurate information and helpful resources.
This publication is supported by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $210,023 with 67 percentage funded by ACL/HHS and $70,240 amount and 33 percentage funded by non-government source (s). The contents are those of the author (s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
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