Publication Date

Spring 4-21-2020

School

School of Behavioral Sciences

Major

Psychology: Human Services Counseling

Keywords

Biracial, Bi-ethnic, Identity Development, Christianity, Racial Identity

Disciplines

Other Psychology | Psychology | Social Psychology

Abstract

A phenomenological overview showed the current understanding and conceptualization held by biracial and bi-ethnic individuals of their racial identity development. While the literature on biracial identity development recently expanded, there is little research done on the various coping mechanisms and mindsets used to create a solidified sense of racial identity in biracial and bi-ethnic individuals. Additionally, there is no research investigating Christianity’s influence on biracial identity development. Such research could bring greater understanding to the various ways double racial consciousness has impacted the lives of multicultural individuals. Furthermore, investigations have brought greater understanding of the different identity resolutions individuals have made amid racial ambiguity, the factors that helped encapsulate their identity formation, and how the Christian faith impacted this process. For the further investigation of this topic, bi-ethnic and biracial individuals between the ages of 18-28 were interviewed. The qualitative data were transcribed, coded, and analyzed for potential patterns to contribute to existing literature. Research yielded ten influential factors that included phenotypical appearance, societal designation of identity, racial profiling and discrimination, peer influence, familial integration, language, media, dating, international schooling, and Christianity.

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