Exploring the role of machismo in gender discrimination: a comparison of Mexico and the US.

This conceptual paper explores how the construct of machismo can influence gender-based discrimination across two cultures; Mexico and the U.S. First, the relevant literature on machismo is reviewed and the construct clarified. Secondly, evidence is presented which indicates that masculine gender roles are not innate, but rather heavily influenced by cultural factors. Hofstede\u27s cultural dimensions are used to develop propositions about the effect of masculinity on gender-based discrimination. We suggest propositions designed to explain how programs aimed at eliminating or reducing gender-based discrimination might be impacted by high levels of cultural masculinity

Forming ideas about health: A qualitative study of Ontario adolescents

Adolescence is a crucial period of child development during which one's ideas about health are formed. However, little is known about the different contexts, experiences, and potential other factors that contribute to shaping the health ideas of adolescent populations, particularly when they are not seeking out the information for a particular purpose. In this Ontario-based qualitative study, grounded theory methods were used to explore ways that health knowledge is obtained in adolescents (age 10–16). A purposeful, criterion-based sampling strategy was used, and data were collected through seven focus groups (n=40). Findings indicate that while young people get their ideas about health through both didactic and organic learning contexts, the significant impact of organic learning is often overlooked. Categories of organic learning that emerged include self-reflective experience, the experience of close contacts, casually observing others, and common discourse. This study suggests that one central way that young people get their ideas about health is from living life: from the people they watch, the conversations that they have, and the experiences they live. Findings support the development of effective health promotion messages and also contribute to considering the place of some aspects of organic learning in the development of health-related resources that target adolescent populations