| This study focuses on Chinese-born Chinese adults over the age of thirty who have resided in the United States for at least ten years and are currently living in Toledo, Ohio. It is a specific group study of a Chinese American subculture living in Toledo, which has neither a Chinese community nor a Chinatown. Through three in-depth interviews with four participants, a life history approach is used to explore and document the life experiences of these Chinese Americans in order to understand what it means to them to be Chinese Americans. The term "Chinese American" implies an ethnic identity, while the term "Asian American" refers to a racial identity; both are recognized by this study. The study design categorizes participants' identities into various statuses and analyzes the type of negotiations constructed in different situations as reported by them. These Chinese Americans construct their identities based on their status as members of the immigrant generation. From their childhood socialization in Taiwan, they are critical of the Americanization of second generation Chinese Americans. The first generation Chinese Americans interviewed have maintained their Chinese identity even though they have attempted to assimilate into American culture. In addition, when situations arise where they cannot incorporate both Chinese and American cultural values and practices, they are more likely to choose Chinese identities. The study provides a theoretical framework for research specifically on Chinese Americans and generally on ethnic subcultures with implications for both social and educational research. |
