Date of Award

8-2026

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Amy Naugle, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Sean Barnes, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Amy Damashek, Ph.D.

Fourth Advisor

Scott Gaynor, Ph.D.

Keywords

Acceptance and commitment therapy ACT, intimate partner violence IPV, Latino, machismo, masculinity, psychological flexibility

Abstract

Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a grave problem in many areas of the world. Latin American countries have some of the highest rates of IPV in the world. One factor potentially impacting these rates has been hypothesized to be traditional machismo. Machismo is a complex construct that has proven difficult to define. A substantial challenge lies in distinguishing the characteristics that are unique to machismo from broader masculine gender role norms. Additionally, machismo seems to have a more “positive” side to it, encompassing loyalty to family, honor, and responsibility. This has been coined caballerismo. Studies looking at the impact of adherence to gender norms on mental and physical health have shown that psychological flexibility acts as a protective factor for those with high masculinity. In the current study, researchers conducted a 30-minute online survey consisting of 72 heterosexual, cisgender men (15 Latino and 57 non-Latino) in the U.S. It asked participants about their gender role beliefs as well as their psychological flexibility and inflexibility. The current study showed that psychological inflexibility moderated the relationship between traditional machismo and acceptance of abuse in romantic relationships. Individuals with high levels of psychological inflexibility reported greater acceptance of abuse as a function of increasing traditional machismo. Future research implications include larger sample size, more diverse sample, and further investigation into culturally specific factors to inform culturally competent treatment.

Access Setting

Dissertation-Open Access

Download

Share

COinS