Multicultural Experience and Intercultural Sensitivity among South Korean Adolescents

Abstract

This study examined experience with multicultural contact and the intercultural sensitivity of majority adolescents in South Korean society, one that is rapidly shifting toward a more multicultural environment. It also analyzed the influence of these multicultural experiences on intercultural sensitivity. The results of the analysis revealed a statistical difference in intercultural sensitivity depending on the status of multicultural contact experience, with such experience holding significant influence on all aspects of intercultural sensitivity. In particular, the number of acquaintances from multicultural families and indirect contact through mass media had a positive influence on all areas of intercultural sensitivity. This result highlights the importance of undergoing various types of contact experiences in daily life, including indirect contact.

Keywords:

• intercultural sensitivity
• contact theory
• parasocial contact theory
• multicultural education

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Jung-Suh Park

Jung-Suh Park is both a lecturer in the Department of Social Studies Education at Seoul National University and a high school teacher. Her areas of research include multicultural education, civic education for North Korean adolescents and social studies curriculum.