Personal Characteristics of Russian Students with Different Types of Ethnic Identity

Abstract

Introduction. The article deals with the problem of the relationship between personality traits and the type of ethnic identity in Russian students. The existing theoretical approaches to the concept and properties of ethnic identity are analyzed. Particular attention is paid to the consideration of ethnic identity types. Materials and Methods. An empirical study was carried out on the basis of National Research Ogarev Mordovia State University. 105 students became participants in the study. The following methods were used: the 16 PF questionnaire by R. Cattell (form C), the “Types of Ethnic Identity” method by G. U. Soldatova and S. V. Ryzhova, The Multigroup Ethnic Identity Measure (MEIM) – Jean S. Phinney, the Method for assessing the positivity and uncertainty of ethnic identity (A. N. Tatarko, N. M. Lebedeva). Mathematical processing of the obtained results was carried out using the correlation analysis of Pearson’s r-test and the Mann – Whitney U-test. Results. As a result of the study, positive correlations were revealed between personal characteristics and ethnic identity types of Russian students. Most students have a positive ethnic identity. They recognize themselves as representatives of their ethnic group, have positive feelings towards representatives of their nationality. At the same time, they adequately relating to other ethnic groups. There were no statistically significant differences between the features of the ethnic identity of Russian and Mordovian students. Discussion and Conclusion. Features of ethnic identity are largely due to the personal qualities of students. Students with a high level of conformism have a positive ethical identity, strive to combine a positive attitude towards their own and other ethnic groups. Students with pronounced personal dominance have a negative attitude towards representatives of other ethnic groups, prefer to communicate with people of their own ethnic group. Individuals striving for independence are more prone to ethnic isolationism, the recognition of the superiority of their people over other ethnic groups. Emotionally unstable students have a low level of ethnic nihilism, strive to reduce tension in relations with others, and seek more stable relationships with people outside of ethnic characteristics. Ethnic indifference is characteristic of persons with a high level of intelligence.