Japanese American Biracial Adolescents and Identity Formation
Date of Award
2002
Document Type
Undergraduate Capstone Project
Degree Name
Psy.D.
Organizational Unit
Graduate School of Professional Psychology
First Advisor
Anthony Bandele
Second Advisor
Jeff King
Third Advisor
Len Tamura
Keywords
Biracial, Japanese-American, Teens, Identity development, Case study, Adolescents
Abstract
The purpose of the current paper is to examine the racial identity development of Japanese American biracial adolescents. A review of the literature revealed critical factors as it relates to Japanese American biracial adolescents and their identity formation. Ethnic identity, adolescent developmental stage, environmental ethnic socialization processes used to facilitate identity development, and the resulting psychological adjustment were the major issues identified in the literature. Educators, counselors and other mental health professionals must begin to understand their development if the needs of this population are to be met in the future. A case study of a biracial Japanese American teen was included to heighten the understanding of the identity development of biracial individuals. Findings indicate that biracial children who are raised to identify with both sides of their ethnic heritage are not suffering from negative psychological consequences (e.g. guilt, anger, isolation) but, instead, gain a "healthier" sense of self. Implications for clinicians are discussed in terms of how therapists can be responsive to the unique needs of biracial adolescents.
Publication Statement
Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Extent
76 pages
Recommended Citation
Ace, Camille R., "Japanese American Biracial Adolescents and Identity Formation" (2002). Graduate School of Professional Psychology: Doctoral Papers and Masters Projects. 127.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/capstone_masters/127