Brazil Family
The family in Brazil is arguably one of the most important aspects of life. As a whole, Brazil tends to be a collectivist society, meaning emphasis is placed on “we” rather than “I” and decisions are often made for the best interest of the community and family rather than the individual. In fact, Geert Hofstede’s theory of cultural dimensions gives Brazil a low score of 38 in individualism. The prevalence of collectivism further supports the idea that the family is the foundation for life in Brazil. In America, the “family” is often includes just the immediate family, which consists of parents and children. In Brazil, however, the “family” often includes the extended family, as well. Aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, nieces, and nephews
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As women gain even more freedom and independence worldwide, the dynamics of the family change. For example, the number of single-parents households is increasing, as is the number of households with two working parents. Although the image of the family is now more varied across Brazil, many traditional values and practices have remained constant with changing times. Children are expected to contribute to the family, as the household is a unit that requires time and energy from all members. They may complete chores such as helping with dinner or, in extreme cases, teenage children may be expected to work to help generate income. When they are older, it is common practice for children to live with their parents until they marry. Even if they attend higher education, they would most likely attend a university near, if not in, their city or town so they can still live at home. When they get married, newlywed couples will typically move into a home that is close to their parents’ homes to ensure that they are still a part of the family. In addition, the elderly are rarely put in permanent hospice care; it is much more common for the elderly to move back in with their children to be cared for. The fact that each member of the family is valued and plays an important role in the household speaks volumes for the importance of family in
As women gain even more freedom and independence worldwide, the dynamics of the family change. For example, the number of single-parents households is increasing, as is the number of households with two working parents. Although the image of the family is now more varied across Brazil, many traditional values and practices have remained constant with changing times. Children are expected to contribute to the family, as the household is a unit that requires time and energy from all members. They may complete chores such as helping with dinner or, in extreme cases, teenage children may be expected to work to help generate income. When they are older, it is common practice for children to live with their parents until they marry. Even if they attend higher education, they would most likely attend a university near, if not in, their city or town so they can still live at home. When they get married, newlywed couples will typically move into a home that is close to their parents’ homes to ensure that they are still a part of the family. In addition, the elderly are rarely put in permanent hospice care; it is much more common for the elderly to move back in with their children to be cared for. The fact that each member of the family is valued and plays an important role in the household speaks volumes for the importance of family in