Masculine gender role scripts and risky sexual factors among Latino college men

What is it about?

We examined two dimensions of the masculine gender role script, machismo, in relation to several cognitive and behavioral outcomes related to risky sex. The data suggested that a hypermasculine dimension of machismo, dubbed traditional machismo, was related to greater intentions to engage in risky sexual behavior. Traditional machismo was also positively related to more positive attitudes toward condom use. Another dimension of machismo, dubbed caballerismo, that is characterized by respect and self-regulation was related to increased condom use in this sample.

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Why is it important?

This study uses a holistic perspective in examining the link between machismo and risky sex among Latino college men. That is, this research explores how masculine scripts may serve as either protective or risk factors in relation to risky sex.