Rosmary’s urge to move out her parents' home and the fact that she had a full time job ended up being enough to outweigh Federico’s fear of marrying without financial stability, and their love proved stronger than all other factors when they got married at the ages of 24 and 26.
In the past, Costa Rican society, like many other Latin American countries, was deeply influenced by machismo, a cultural concept that glorifies traditional masculine traits such as dominance, toughness, and control over women and family. Gender roles were clearly defined, with men expected to be the primary breadwinners and decision-makers, while women were often kept to domestic roles, expected to prioritize caregiving and household duties.
Rosemary and Federico’s generation saw the traditional gender dynamic of their parents, and this generation began to make changes that influenced the way men and women are perceived in society. These changes have continued into the present day, where gender reform is one of the topics at the forefront of Costa Rican society. Changes in family structures, including a rise in single-parent households and dual-income families, have caused a reevaluation of traditional gender roles. Men are increasingly taking on caregiving responsibilities, blurring the lines between traditional gender roles. Over time, economic changes have also played a significant role in reshaping gender dynamics. As Costa Rica transitioned from an agrarian, or agricultural, economy to an industrial and service-based economy, more women entered the workforce, challenging traditional notions of male dominance in the public sphere.
