Beyond Race: Examining the Facets of Multiracial Identity Through a Life-span Developmental Lens

Abstract

Using a social work developmental lens, this qualitative study explored some of the numerous social and environmental factors that shape a multiracial individual's cultural identity. Results from transcript analysis portray the cultural identity of multiracial persons as significantly influenced by (1) personal experiences of racism and discrimination; (2) social interactions and relationships with peers and family; and (3) the racial climate of the school and community. The findings from this study support more fluid, ecological models of multiracial identity development that are more effective at explicating some of the highly complex and influential contextual factors that impact a multiracial person's cultural identity development.

KEYWORDS:

• multiracial identity development
• life-span development
• ecological model
• cultural identity
• narrative methods

This research project was supported in part by the Mark Diamond Research Fund (MDRF) from the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. The MDRF offers grants to graduate students for research expenses related to their thesis or dissertation.