About E. S. Expertise I can answer anything that there is to know about being Latino the in the United States. I can also answer questions regarding immigration and emigration to/from the United States.
Experience I am first generation Mexican-American, born and raised in Southern California.
Education/Credentials Bachelors degree in Latin-American Studies and Spanish.
Question Hi and thanks for volunteering your time!
I was recently told that in Latino culture one is not supposed to touch the head of a baby or small child, like in patting it, stroking the hair etc. Is this correct? It was said to be something about the soul of the child leaving or something. I am particularly interested in this question from a Cuban persepctive but also in general.
Thanks
~John of AllFaith
Answer This is true, but not only in Latino culture but in many cultures in Asia, Africa and Europe. In Latino culture, patting a childs head is more of a demeaning touch, as if you were touching a thing like a dog. Other parts of Latin America see it as if you're cursing the child. In Cuba they are more superstitious so I believe by touching a baby's head in such a demeaning way would be as if you are cursing the child.
