Second-generation Iranian-Americans: The relationship between ethnic identity, acculturation, and psychological well-being

The purpose of this research was to explore the life experiences and challenges of second generation Iranian-Americans by examining relations between ethnicity, acculturation, and psychological well-being of this population. The focus on psychological well-being was partly concerned with the moderating role of coping responses in managing various life stressors. Special attention was given to mass migration to Western countries that followed the Iranian revolution in 1979, and the implications of growing up and living in an unfavorable social/political climate for second generation Iranian-Americans. A mixed methodology evaluation method consisting of both quantitative and qualitative measures was utilized to explore the relationship among the variables in the research questions. The utilization of various theoretical views provided guidelines on social, cultural, and psychological components of this research. Results from this study indicated that majority of second generation Iranian-Americans reported to have bicultural orientation with high level of ethnic identity and high level of acculturation to mainstream culture. The findings also indicated an overall flexibility among participants that would likely help them to negotiate, construct, and reconstruct meaningful sense of self through their social and cultural interactions. The pattern of flexibility was further evident in coping with stress, and in agreement with orthogonal characteristics. Psychological well-being was measured, using multidimensional scale with six components of autonomy, purpose in life, environmental mastery, personal growth, and positive relations with others. In addition, positive sense of well-being was found to be related to bicultural orientation, personal resources, and parental support that help this young generation to meet life challenges.