What Does "Being American" Mean? A Comparison of Asian American and European American Young Adults
Author(s):
Tsai, Jeanne L.; Mortensen, Heather; Wong, Ying; Hess, Dan
Format:
Journal article
Citation:
Cultural Diversity And Ethnic Minority Psychology, Volume 8, Issue 3 (2002-08). pp. 257-273.
Language:
English
Abstract:
Two studies found that the meaning of "being American" differs for Asian Americans & European Americans. In Study 1, Hmong & European American undergraduates described what "being American" meant to them. In Study 2, Chinese American & European American undergraduates described what "American culture" meant to them. Responses were coded for references to cultural exposure, customs/traditional behavior, ethnic diversity, political ideology, & patriotism. Across both studies, Asian Americans referred to American customs & traditional behavior more than European Americans. European Americans referred to patriotism more than Hmong (in Study 1) & to ethnic diversity more than Chinese Americans (in Study 2). The authors suggest that these differences reflect the distinct statuses, concerns, & experiences of Asian Americans & European Americans. 4 Tables, 37 References. Adapted from the source document.