Beyond Race: Examining the Facets of Multiracial Identity Through a Life-span Developmental Lens

Beyond Race: Examining the Facets of Multiracial Identity Through a Life-span Developmental Lens

Journal of Ethnic And Cultural Diversity in Social Work
Volume 18, Issue 4 (October 2009)
pages 293-310
DOI: 10.1080/15313200903310759

Kelly F. Jackson, Assistant Professor of Social Work
Arizona State University

Using a social work developmental lens, this qualitative study explored some of the numerous social and environmental factors that shape a multiracial individual’s cultural identity. Results from transcript analysis portray the cultural identity of multiracial persons as significantly influenced by (1) personal experiences of racism and discrimination; (2) social interactions and relationships with peers and family; and (3) the racial climate of the school and community. The findings from this study support more fluid, ecological models of multiracial identity development that are more effective at explicating some of the highly complex and influential contextual factors that impact a multiracial person’s cultural identity development.

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