Mexican Family

Mexican family is the core of Mexican life, the building block of Mexican society. The families in Mexico are quite close knit, with extended families being the traditional norm. It is not uncommon to find, both in the rural and urban areas, three generations or even more, residing in the same household. Most of the Mexicans are usually seen to maintain links with their extended family members like in laws, aunts and uncles. However, nuclear families are equally important in Mexico. During family centric occasions most of the family members across generations, celebrate and enjoy together. It is a common sight in Mexico to see teenagers and children dancing and merrymaking along with their grandparents. The importance accorded to Mexican family is portrayed through the fact that the Mexicans frequently arrange family vacations and picnics.

Mexican Family Traditions

There are several traditions guiding Mexican family life. Mexican family traditions play a critical role in assigning gender based roles to the men and women of the family. The home is the domain for the women, who are the mothers and the wives, while the workplace defines the domain for the men. Until marriage, the girls are under the strict surveillance of the family. The behavior code of men, known as machismo, is imposed by the Mexican family traditions. Typical traits of machismo include display of confidence, control and pride. Mexican family traditions become evident through a number of family oriented occasions. Wedding is one such family celebration that is adorned with elaborate rituals. Another family centric occasion is quinceanera, the fifteenth birthday of a woman that is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur.