Perceived Opportunity, Ethnic Identity, and Achievement Motivation Among Latinos at a Selective Public University

Abstract

Using in-depth interview data, this study explored perceptions of opportunity, ethnic identity beliefs, and motivation orientations among Latino students at a selective university. One profile is characterized by individualistic achievement motivations, feelings of exemption from social barriers, and a sense of alienation from other Latinos. Students in the second profile reported a strong affiliation with Latinos and were motivated to ameliorate perceived group disparities. Students in the third profile felt connected to Latinos but were not personally motivated by perceived inequities. These profiles demonstrate the heterogeneous ways in which Latino students draw upon their ethnicity to negotiate pathways through college.

Key words:

• achievement motivation
• social inequity
• ethnic identity
• higher education
• academic attainment
• adolescence