Identity construction among remotely acculturating non-migrant youths: Psychological and social implications

Abstract

Background Identity as a complex socio-historical concept can be negotiated by young adults if exposed to other cultures aside their own original culture and may thus bring about certain consequences that are hardly acknowledged. Objective The aim of the study was to examine how remote exposure to foreign cultures influences young adults in the major domains of their ethnic identity and also examine the extent to which the phenomenon influences the quality of interpersonal relationships as well as life satisfaction. Method A total number of 414 young men and women participated in the study. (Female = 57.48%; Male = 42.51%, age range is 16 and 35 years). The participants responded to questionnaires designed to measure: exposure to foreign culture, remote acculturation, ethnic identity, and two other validated scales. The data analysis was conducted using descriptive and inferential statistics. Result Findings indicate that remote exposure to foreign culture partially predicted remote acculturation. Results also indicate that Identity exploration was positively related to remote acculturation. The study also found that there was a relationship between identity affirmation and life satisfaction. Identity affirmation was also found to be positively associated with quality of interpersonal relationships. Finally, there was a significant difference in the identity resolution of remotely-acculturating and non acculturating participants. Conclusion The study offers evidence on the reality of remote acculturation among the youths in Nigeria and suggested that loss of an identity to a foreign one among young people could affect family relationships and undermine social harmony. Adolescents could be supported through identity development process to develop in a way that makes them culturally competent globally but locally relevant.

Effects of American drama familiarity on Chinese people’s remote acculturation, attitudes, and watching intentions

“…As a consequence of geographical barrier presented by the expansive Pacific Ocean, a significant proportion of individuals residing on the Chinese Mainland have limited opportunities for direct interaction with the United States or its citizens [1]. However, geography no longer serves as an essential determining factor for acculturation, and individuals can experience acculturation in their own countries, which is referred to as remote acculturation [2]. In other words, the globalization of the twenty-first century has triggered acculturation's brand-new forms, which people worldwide are experiencing [3].…”

“…Specific research objectives have been laid down for the purpose of the study: (1) To ascertain the bearings of American drama familiarity on remote acculturation, attitudes towards American dramas, and watching intentions of American dramas. (2) To delve into the bearings of remote acculturation on attitudes towards American dramas as well as the bearings of attitudes toward American dramas on intentions to watch American dramas, with remote acculturation and attitudes toward American dramas being mediating variables.…”