The Chilean People 63available at almost any hour if need be. Most women from
the lower income bracket turn to their extended family,
friends, neighbours or even older children for help with
young children.
Traditional Roles
Although Chilean women have made great strides and
appear to be progressing, a closer look reveals that many
women continue to adhere to traditional roles. We have met
several young professional women who seemed to have very
promising careers, yet gave it all up to get married and raise
a family. There are many bright women who tell you outright
that they are only studying at the university or working in
order to find a good husband. Although women are gaining
some level of independence, they still feel the pressure to
get married and have children. Many cannot wait to be
addressed as Señora (Mrs) instead of Señorita (Miss) because
of the respect it commands. How can these contradictions
be explained?
Certainly these attitudes cannot be blamed on machismo.
For, although Chilean society can be described as conserva-
tive and traditional, there is no blatant machismo. When
machismo rears its ugly head in Chile it is very subtle. While
there may be exceptions, Chilean men for the most part
are not opposed to having their wives work. In fact, not
only does the extra income help, but many men are proud
of their wives and their accomplishments. And, as some
women say, let’s not forget that macho men were raised
by their mothers.
The best explanation is that for all the advancements in
education and employment opportunities, Chilean women
still regard family as the most important aspect of their lives.
In the northern hemisphere, women debate the importance
of work vs. family. Chilean women, in general, have never
had to decide between a family or a career. There has never
been any question as to whether or not to have children, even
for those who need to work for financial reasons. Family is
the central and most important social unit in Chile and roles
within it have not changed much.