I am Multiracial: Predictors of Multiracial identification strength among mixed ancestry individuals. Issue 5 (3rd July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Norman, Jasmine B.; Chen, Jacqueline M.
• Is Part Of: Self and identity. Volume 19:Issue 5(2020)
• Page Start: 501
• Page End: 520
• Publication Date: 2020-07-03
• Subjects: Multiracial -- racial identity -- ambiguity -- discrimination; Self -- Periodicals; Identity (Psychology) -- Periodicals; Cognition -- Periodicals; Motivation (Psychology) -- Periodicals; 155.205
• DOI: 10.1080/15298868.2019.1635522
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1529-8868

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Research has yet to examine variability in how strongly individuals claim the unconventional Multiracial identity and why. In two studies, we examined mixed-race individuals' strength of Multiracial identification. Across both studies ( NS1 = 139; NS2 = 215), mixed-race people who regularly received feedback that their appearance was incongruent with their background had stronger Multiracial identification. In Study 2, perceived discrimination was associated with Multiracial identification, but the link depended on the racial group of the perpetrator. Specifically, perceiving discrimination from ingroup members was associated with stronger Multiracial identification, and this was strongest when White ingroup members were the source of discrimination. These findings demonstrate the interpersonal nature of racial identity and illuminate the complex dynamics of negotiating multiple racial backgrounds.