Ethnic identity development of second-generation Taiwanese Americans

This study explored the ethnic self-identification of second-generation Taiwanese Americans and the factors contributing to their ethnic identity formation. It also examined the impact of the ethnic composition of the community in which individuals grew up on their ethnic identity development. It was speculated that compared with those who grew up in predominantly white communities, second-generation Taiwanese Americans who grew up in communities where Asians were predominant or ethnic diversity was the norm would have a strong or more secure ethnic identity and experience less conflict in the process of ethnic identity construction.; The participants were twenty two second-generation Taiwanese Americans between the ages of 18 and 40. About half of the participants (n=12) grew up in predominantly white communities and the other half of the participants (n=10) grew up either in ethnically diverse communities or in predominantly Asian communities. The results of this study were analyzed based on the participants' narrative responses to three questionnaires that intended to gather information pertaining to various aspects of their ethnic identities.; The original speculation was not supported by the findings of this study. The study results indicated that frequent contacts with co-ethnics and easy access to ethnic resources did not necessarily lead to the development of a strong positive ethnic identity, nor did they result in less conflict in the process of ethnic identity formation. Second generation Taiwanese Americans, regardless of the ethnic composition of the communities in which they were raised, feel pressure to blend in and be accepted by mainstream society. They struggle with their ethnic identity due to internalized racism and negative stereotypes. Those who grew up in communities where there are a large percentage of Asian immigrants face greater challenges in developing a positive ethnic identity due to feelings of dissonance from the immigrant population as well as internalized negative group stereotypes. Social identity theory can be used as a framework for understanding the process of ethnic identity formation in second-generation Taiwanese Americans.; Parents play a vital role in facilitating the development of a strong positive ethnic identity in their children through passing on ethnic language and cultural heritage as well instilling a sense of ethnic pride in their children. Involvement in an ethnic community is a necessary but not sufficient factor in ethnic identity development. The ability to select one's ethnic association as well as exposure to positive ethnic role models are more important than the availability of an ethnic community in influencing one's ethnic identity development.