Hispanic Fathers and Family Literacy: Strengthening Achievement in Hispanic Communities: http://fatherhood.hhs.gov/hispanic01/index.htm

Demythologizing the Mexican American Father

“…Research on Mexican American fathers must focus on the cultural understanding of the specific groups of Mexican American fathers. They need to be studied in their own right because Mexican American fathers may have assumed paternal roles that differ from those of Anglo American fathers (Bernal et al, 2000). Mirandé (1991) noted that although such families differed from Anglo American families; they have been pressured to modernize, though they may still be perceived to be traditional and clinging to old-fashioned norms.…”

“…They also share some aspects of a cultural heritage found in several geographical regions of North, Central, and South America where it was established by Spanish explorers, traders, and colonists. However, conditions and experiences of groups and individuals in their countries of origin and in the United States have modified both their language and culture (Bernal et al, 2000).…”

“…In addition, the language for the Hispanic population differs in idiomatic usage across geographic areas. Therefore, it is important to know the Spanish and English language fluency and the language-use preferences of the specific Hispanic population that is being studied before generalizing about spoken and written language (Bernal et al, 2000).…”

“…The assumption that fathers lack motivation to become involved in their children's development needs to be challenged. Fathers can be motivated to contribute to their children's lives, but they also need to know what to do (Bernal et al, 2000). Saracho (2007b) examined the research literature on the role of Hispanic fathers in their children's literacy development.…”

“…He found that fathers valued participation with their spouse or partner, familiarity with others in the group, and engaging with professional male staff. Parent programs can make fathers feel welcome by encouraging fathers to become actively involved in the education program (Bernal et al, 2000).…”