The “Brazilian Way” (jeitinho brasileiro) is a distinctive cultural practice, often associated with the creativity and adaptability of Brazilians in solving everyday problems. This behavior, which sparks curiosity and generates discussions about ethics and social relationships, is explored from new perspectives in a recently published book. This work is a research collaboration between Ronald Fischer, a researcher at IDOR, and Ronaldo Pilati, from the University of Brasília (UnB), aiming to conduct a scientific and systematic study of the jeitinho, with a focus on describing the psychological characteristics of behaviors within the Brazilian context.

The book, which compiles a series of studies conducted over the last 15 years, reveals how the jeitinho relates to personality traits, social values, and even similar cultural phenomena in other parts of the world.

The research highlights the psychological foundations of the jeitinho, addressing how this practice reflects intrinsic values and beliefs of Brazilian culture. Using interviews and the “critical incident” method—where participants describe situations and their spontaneous solutions—the researchers identified different types of jeitinho, which vary depending on the context and the intentions of those involved. This suggests that the jeitinho is not merely a practical strategy but also a collective mental representation that conveys resilience and adaptability, values that define many social interactions in Brazil.

Another fascinating aspect of the book is its comparison of the jeitinho with cultural practices in other countries, such as guanxi in China, wasta in Arab nations, and “pulling strings” in England. Despite cultural differences, these behaviors share the essence of seeking informal solutions to problems, demonstrating that social adaptability is a universal phenomenon. The study shows that while cultural differences exist, the human tendency to use informal strategies to navigate challenges is a global trait.

The authors conclude that the jeitinho brasileiro is a multifaceted phenomenon rich in meaning, going beyond a simple informal practice. It reflects the social dynamics and cultural influences that shape human behavior, particularly in challenging contexts. Understanding the jeitinho allows for a broader analysis of social relationships, encouraging reflection on ethics, adaptability, and the impact of cultural influences on behavior.

For those interested in exploring these themes, the book is an essential read, paving the way for reflections on how each culture uniquely and creatively responds to challenges.

Access the book for free

Written by Manuelly Gomes
Illustration: Storyset