Acculturation, communication patterns, and self-esteem among Asian and Caucasian American adolescents

Adolescence. 2003 Winter;38(152):749-68.

Abstract

This study examined level of acculturation, openness in communication with parents, peer interaction, and self-esteem in two ethnic groups-Asian and Caucasian American adolescents who grew up in the same neighborhood. The findings provide evidence of significant ethnic differences in behavioral patterns, peer networks, family contexts, and levels of self-esteem. In general, Asian adolescents expressed more difficulty discussing problems with their parents when compared to their Caucasian counterparts. Further, self-esteem was found to be significantly lower among Asians than Caucasians. Implications for the provision of mental health services are discussed.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Acculturation*
  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / ethnology*
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology
  • Asia, Eastern / ethnology
  • Asian / psychology*
  • Communication*
  • Family / ethnology
  • Family / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • India / ethnology
  • Los Angeles
  • Male
  • Parent-Child Relations / ethnology*
  • Peer Group
  • Schools
  • Self Concept*
  • Self-Assessment
  • Social Support
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Students / psychology
  • White People / psychology*