Author ORCID Identifier
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0493-4105 : Ben C.H. Kuo
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4875-2335 : Carolyn Tran
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6679-4339 : Kathryn Edmunds
https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8314-869X : Kathryn Lafreniere
Document Type
Article
Publication Title
Journal of Ethnice and Cultural Studies
Publication Date
2024
Volume
11
Issue
1
First Page
58
Last Page
79
Keywords
biculturalism, bicultural stress, bicultural identity development, Canadian context.
DOI
10.29333/ejecs/1870
ISSN
2149-1291
Abstract
This study delves into the ecological factors that predict bicultural stress among bicultural adult Canadians while uncovering common themes surrounding their bicultural identity and developmental journey. A sample of bicultural Canadians (N = 147; 88% female, Mage = 20.72) participated in an online survey consisting of standardized self-report measures and open-ended inquiries about their bicultural experience. The study identified factors contributing to current levels of bicultural stress through regression analysis. Additionally, thematic analysis was conducted to explore participants’ narratives about their bicultural experiences. Participants were of diverse racial/ethnic Canadian backgrounds (Middle Eastern, n = 50; East and Southeast Asian, n = 22; South Asian, n = 27; Black, n = 21; multiple ethnicities, n = 22; Latin, n = 5). The regression results demonstrated that ethnic identity, family cultural socialization towards heritage culture, perceived discrimination, and generational status contributed to feelings of bicultural stress. Thematic analysis revealed a developmental trajectory encompassing participants’ realization of their bicultural identity, navigating bicultural stress, and cultivating an appreciation for their dual cultures. Findings suggest that bicultural individuals’ interactions with their social environment may develop their bicultural identity towards more positive outcomes as they approach adulthood.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Tran, Carolyn; Lafreniere, Kathryn; Kuo, B.C.H; and Edmunds, Kathryn. (2024). “It’s the Best of Both Worlds!”: Investigating Bicultural Stress in Adult Bicultural Canadians. Journal of Ethnice and Cultural Studies, 11 (1), 58-79.
https://scholar.uwindsor.ca/psychologypub/117