The relationship between perceived ethnic discrimination and ethnic identity exploration as mediated by ethnic identity crisis

Abstract

In the adolescent identity formation literature, negative experiences of stress in particular, gender discrimination, and difficulties with work, relationships, finances, health, and experiences with death have been associated with increased identity exploration (Anthis, 2002a,b). Despite these findings, little research has been conducted to examine the relationship between ethnic identity discrimination and ethnic identity exploration. Some 106 males, now 18-28 years of age who entered Norway as unaccompanied minors, were the participants of this investigation. All participants volunteered to take part in the Youth, Culture, and Competence Study (YCC) conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. Items from Phinney’s MEIM and additional questions regarding participants’ experiences of ethnic identity crisis and ethnic discrimination were administered in a survey as part of a larger investigation of coping and cultural competence among youths living in Norway. This study aims to detail the relationship between experiences of ethnic discrimination and ethnic identity exploration, whereby ethnic identity crisis was considered as a possible mediator. Results showed that the experience of ethnic discrimination was associated with increased identity exploration and increased level of identity crisis. However, identity crisis was not a mediator between these two variables, as anticipated. This research should enable a deeper understanding of the role that ethnic discrimination may play in ethnic identity development among unaccompanied minors living in Norway.