Traditional gender roles and alcohol use among Latinas/os: A review of the literature

J Ethn Subst Abuse. 2021 Jan-Mar;20(1):151-168. doi: 10.1080/15332640.2019.1579142. Epub 2019 Mar 25.

Abstract

Research indicates alcohol use among Latinas/os occurs within a gendered context. Scholars surmise this is due to traditional gender roles (TGRs) of Latina/o culture, but without an analysis of the literature these assertions are unclear. Thus, this article provides a narrative review of the extant TGRs and alcohol use literature among Latinas/os. Thirteen articles met inclusion criteria. Across studies, findings were mixed, aside from those suggesting TGRs composed of hypermasculinity (i.e., traditional machismo) were robustly related to drinking. Tests of mediation and moderation indicated TGRs and alcohol use should be assessed within a multivariate framework. Future research should address these inconsistencies through methodological refinements. In addition, we suggest the integration of existing theoretical perspectives to assist with scholarly development in this area.

Keywords: Hispanic; Latina/o; alcohol; machismo; marianismo.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Gender Identity
  • Gender Role*
  • Hispanic or Latino*
  • Humans