Research Paper Summaries
In-depth Studies and Scholarly Contributions by Dr. Su Yeong Kim
Parental Discriminatory Experiences and Ethnic Minority Adolescent Adjustment: A Systematic Review of Family Perspectives
Summary: This meta-analytic review dives into how family cultural socialization influences the development of ethnic–racial identity (ERI) during adolescence. Cultural socialization involves the ways parents teach their kids about their cultural roots, traditions, and values. For adolescents of color, developing ERI is a crucial part of growing up, which includes both exploration, actively seeking out information, and commitment, feeling a connection to one’s ethnic or racial group. The review pulled together findings from 46 studies involving over 29,000 adolescents from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, such as African American, Latinx, Asian American, and multiracial youth. By using random-effects models, the analysis showed a positive relationship between family cultural socialization and both ERI exploration and commitment, with moderate effect sizes. The moderation analyses revealed that the developmental stage and the type of measurement used are important factors. The connection between cultural socialization and ERI exploration was stronger in early adolescence compared to later stages, indicating that family influence might wane as peers and outside environments become more significant. Moreover, studies that relied on youth self-reports (as opposed to parent reports) and used multidimensional ERI measures showed even stronger associations. Interestingly, the study found no significant differences in effect sizes among different racial/ethnic groups, suggesting that the positive impact of cultural socialization is consistent across various populations. This review offers solid empirical backing for theoretical models that highlight the family’s role in ERI development. It emphasizes the importance of culturally affirming parenting practices during early adolescence, a key time for identity formation. The authors advocate for more longitudinal and culturally sensitive research, particularly studies that explore how external factors (like school climate and discrimination) interact with family socialization. This work emphasizes the crucial role that families play in helping adolescents develop their ethnic and racial identities. It provides valuable insights for both researchers and practitioners who are dedicated to promoting the well-being of youth in our diverse societies.
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