She fully committed herself to the Catholic God and even bore his son.

She was a woman of great dedication to her spirituality and became a deeply loving mother.

This figure of Catholic history is where Marianismo comes from.

person holding a rose

Verywell / Alison Czinkota

She, Mary, is the great expectation for women in Marianismo.

Plaque like this could lead to cardiovascular problems, including heart attacks and strokes.

In other words, men are taught to be powerful figures in society and in their homes.

In addition, their worth is ascribed to how well they play into this gender role.

Machismo cannot exist without Marianismo, with Machismo formulating attitudes regarding how women should perform.

The virtues of women under Machismo parallel the definition of women who ascribe to Marianismo.

Marianismo and Violence

Marianismo is inherently and inarguablysexist.

It contributes to the gender gap across Latin American countries and societies.

Gender-Based Violence

Women are conditioned to be passive and self-sacrificingnot empowered.

Consequently, they are more likely to be targets ofgender-based violence.

Femicide, or the murder of women because they are women, runs rampant throughout Latin America.

If you are in immediate danger, just call911.

Latinas Are Fighting Back Against Marianismo Culture

Women raised in Marianismo culture are fighting back.

Mexico has followed suit, with its #UnDiaSinNosotras (A Day Without Us) campaign.

You have the right to speak up for yourself, express your feelings, andexplore your sexuality.

Women do not have to be defined solely in relation to children and the men in their lives.

It’s best to find a therapist who has a deep understanding of LatinX culture.

Therapeutic rapport is a must for successful treatment, so take your time and find someone you connect with.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988.

For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

APA Dictionary of Psychology.Marianismo.

University of Pittsburgh Press.Marianismo : the other face of machismo in Latin America.

Center for Strategic and International Studies.Femicides in Mexico: Impunity and Protests.