The Connections Between Latino Ethnic Identity and Adult Experiences

Abstract

This study considers the influence of adult experiences on the development of Latino ethnic identity. Using purposeful and snowball sampling, adult participants responded to open-ended questions about their understanding of being Latino. Analysis indicated that changes in the environment or life circumstances had the greatest effect on the reevaluation of identity. This process, referred to as looping, occurred in 35% of the adults surveyed and illustrates the process that occurs when an individual questions previous understanding of identity yet does not lose his/her previous sense of committed self. In addition, the study found that adults who self-identify as having a bicultural orientation were more likely to experience a looping effect, though some Latino-oriented individuals also experienced this effect.

The Influence of Family Dynamics on Ethnic Identity Among Adult Latinas

“…While most of the Latinas in the study reflected on how their early experiences impacted their current outlooks on life and/or ethnic identity, many also discussed marriage and motherhood as triggering evaluations or re-evaluations of ethnic identity. This process of re-evaluation of ethnic identity has also been seen among adult Latino men, but a change in the racial composition of the environment or a new job often triggers this evaluation (Torres et al 2012). In reference to these early experiences, many Latinas learned about their own culture and what is meant to be of Latino descent, but many also learned to be comfortable with people from cultures different from their own.…”

Answering the Call: Hispanic-Serving Institutions as Leaders in the Quest for Access, Excellence, and Equity in American Higher Education

“…Given that racial and ethnic identities are socially constructed and variable for different individuals and communities rather than fixed (Haney Lopez, 1994;Torres et al, 2012;Z. Valdez, 2013), it is our responsibility as scholars to listen to the diverse needs of our Latinx community and to advance the conversation.…”

Risky Sexual Behaviors: The Role of Ethnic Identity in HIV Risk in Migrant Workers

“…The only research that addressed ethnic identity change in adulthood was a study by Torres et al (2012). The findings of that study suggested that ethnic identity did change, and that it might change in adulthood when experiencing life changing or stressful circumstances.…”