Nanay tatay: a phenomenological study on the perceived social stigma and machismo of househusbands

Abstract

This research study presents a phenomenological analysis on the perceived social stigma and machismo of househusbands living in Dasmarinas, Cavite. Twelve househusbands aged 25-58 participated in a face-to-face semi-structured in-depth interview. The results indicate that the participants’ concept of househusbands is linked with the duties and responsibilities associated with their status. Even with the role reversal and changes in the dynamics of the family, most participants argue that the fathers should be the prominent figure in decision-making. As the study aims to identify the househusbands’ perceived social stigma and machismo, it is revealed that the househusbands have varying reasons as to how their situation affects or does not affect their machismo. It can be noted that personal, social, and psychological factors play a role on how their machismo is affected. As for stigma, the participants agree that many, if not most, people think negatively of househusbands. However, this perception does not entail that they derive negative meanings from their experience. The househusbands employ different coping strategies which helps them cope and adjust to their situation.