| The purpose of this study was to test a theory of group-related identity/self that distinguishes the influence of the large scale social cleavages of ethnicity, race, and culture. Definitions of these factors are often confounded, and their unique psychological contributions difficult to interpret. Phinney's ethnic identity theory, Helms' racial identity theory, and Bandlamudi's view of the cultural self are discussed. Ethnic identity is defined in terms of belonging to the people of one's parental heritage(s). Racial identity for both Whites and non-Whites involves responding to racism—attributing character and ability in terms of phenotype. Cultural self refers to the individual's construction of personal meaning using cultural values, products, and behaviors integrated with one's own personality and temperament. Cultural influences may include parents' ethnic cultures and others. Seven multiethnic/multiracial/multicultural young adults (5 females, 2 males) in their 20s and early 30s were interviewed. Each had an immigrant Asian Indian father and an American born (one British), non-Indian mother. Results confirmed that discussions of ethnicity, race, and culture, as defined in this paper, could be differentiated. Subjects used different language and referred to different factors when addressing each. Ethnicity was discussed in terms of birthright and origins, and respondents could choose when and how to participate. Parents' approval was important as was acceptance by coethnics. Racial discussions related to appearance, and respondents referred to race as primarily a White/non-White issue involving politics of positionality; prejudice, experienced or observed; and fairness. Cultural self was discussed in terms of values, strengths, and ways of living. Influences of their parents' ethnic culture(s) or others were discussed in terms of essential self, who they really were. Group-related identity/self is fluid, complex, and incorporates multiple influences. It is situational, that is, it is experienced in relation to local and national social definitions and structures. This theory may improve dialogue on group-related identity/self, help to explain conflicting findings in research, and connect psychology to other scholarly writing on race, ethnicity and culture. Further study will determine whether this theory applies to all, as is asserted in this paper, not just persons with multiple heritages or immigrants. |
