Adolescents' reference-group choices, self-esteem, and adjustment |
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Authors: | M J Rotheram-Borus |
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Affiliation: | Division of Child Psychiatry, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032. |
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Abstract: | Three hundred thirty Black, Hispanic, Asian, and White high school students reported their reference-group label as mainstream, bicultural, or strongly ethnically identified. Compared with other groups, White students were significantly more likely to be mainstream. Across ethnic groups, students reporting a strong ethnic identification held attitudes that were significantly more separatist, reported more ethnic pride, engaged in less cross-ethnic contact out of school, reported more cross-ethnic conflict, and used English significantly less often than other reference groups. Reference-group label was not associated with significant ethnic differences in self-esteem, social competence, or grade point average. The generational status of minority students is discussed as a potential influence mediating the impact of reference group on adjustment. |
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