Latina dating and sexual practices

The purpose of the present study was to identify what attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors regarding dating and sexuality are communicated to Latinas by their parents and how this information influences their romantic and sexual relationships. The three main research questions in the study are 1) What dating rules and practices do Latino parents endorse for their children? 2) What are the sexual socialization practices of Latino parents? What roles do parental cultural beliefs and values play in these practices? and 3) How do parental beliefs and values currently influence Latinas' sexual practices? Ten Latinas were interviewed for this study. Approximately half of the women were told what type of men they should date (e.g., reputable and possess similar characteristics as the participant) and these messages were primarily communicated by their mothers. Many of the women experienced the double standard when it came to dating rules. Parents were split about their decision to be supportive if their daughter was a lesbian. Lastly, half of the parents, both mothers and fathers, shared with their daughters the cultural value of maintaining their virginity. However, most of the women did not endorse this belief and were sexually active. The implications of these results are discussed.