What is familism?

Familism refers to a cultural value system that emphasizes the importance of family connections, support, and loyalty above individual desires or pursuits. This philosophy holds that the needs and interests of the family should take precedence over individual ambitions or achievements. In societies or communities where familism is prominent, individuals often make decisions that benefit the family unit as a whole, demonstrating strong commitment to family bonds, mutual support, and cooperation among relatives.

The emphasis on family support can manifest in various ways, such as prioritizing family gatherings, caring for elderly relatives, and extending emotional or financial assistance to family members in need. This communal approach fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility towards one another, and often leads to a tightly-knit family structure where individual actions are closely tied to family welfare.

In contrast, the other options focus on values like individualism and independence, which run counter to the fundamental principles of familism. They do not align with the idea of prioritizing family over personal success, which is a hallmark of this concept.