Psychology

Coming of age in a multicultural world: Globalization and adolescent cultural identity formation

Document Type

Article

Abstract

The aim of this article is to explore implications of globalization for adolescent cultural identity formation. The thesis is that adolescents increasingly form multicultural identities because they grow up knowing diverse cultural beliefs and behaviors. First, ways that adolescents increasingly have exposure to different cultures are illustrated with ethnographic and cross-cultural work. Then, 3 emerging research issues are raised: (a) the extent to which it is important whether a multicultural identity is based on first-hand versus indirect (media-based) interactions with diverse peoples, (b) how cultural identity formation may take diverse developmental paths depending on the particular cultures involved, and (c) gains and losses that occur when persons form a multicultural identity rather than an identity based primarily on one cultural tradition. Finally, the article suggests using multiple methods that are sensitive to different perspectives in research on globalization and adolescent identity formation.

Publication Title

Applied Developmental Science

Publication Date

2003

Volume

7

Issue

3

First Page

189

Last Page

196

ISSN

1088-8691

DOI

10.1207/S1532480XADS0703_10

Keywords

multiculturalism, globalization, teenagers, identity, culture

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