TNL: A Study of the Relationship of Gender Role Socialization, Perceived Parenting Style of Father, and Machismo among Male Engineering Students

Abstract

The study was an attempt to understand the relationship of early gender role socialization, parenting style of father, and machismo among a homogeneous population. There were 90 participants in the study, all of which were 4th or 5th year Electronics and Communications Engineering students, heterosexual males, and eldest among their siblings. Sequential mixed methods were used. Findings are consistent with past studies that showed traditional gender role socialization is associated with machismo. However, regression analysis showed that authoritative fathering style predicts machismo, contrary to Latino studies which assumed authoritarian style perpetuates it. Qualitative data involving responses from seven interviewees showed that love, trust, open communication, and bond contribute to the learning of male norms. Fathers assume active role in socializing their sons and use different strategies to do so.