Acculturation as a Mediating Factor between Ethnic and Self-Identities

Is acculturation a mediating factor in self- and ethnic identity among ethnic minority emerging-adults? A conceptual model was tested examining links between self and ethnic identity and acculturation. An association was proposed between perceived social support, affirmation and belonging, and EOM self-identity statuses (diffusion, foreclosure, moratorium, achievement) as mediated by VIA mainstream and heritage acculturation. A second association was proposed between out-group orientation, interpersonal variables, and ethnic identity as mediated by VIA mainstream and heritage acculturation. This study did not provide full support for acculturation as a mediating variable; rather, the ‘interpersonal variable’ was an intervening variable in the association between heritage acculturation and ethnic identity search and affirmation and belongingness. The results confirm that VIA mainstream acculturation is not mediating an effect on ethnic identity; rather, it has a direct effect. The results also confirm that the interpersonal variable is not mediating an effect on ethnic identity. Implications and directions for future research are discussed