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Abstract
Objective
The present study adapted the recently developed adult Acculturation and Resilience Scale to be used with culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) adolescents. The factor structure and psychometric properties of the adapted scale were explored. The adapted scale was used to examine how CALD adolescents' acculturation and resilience is impacted by their demographics.
Method
The 27‐item Acculturation and Resilience Scale for adults was adapted to increase its appropriateness for CALD youth. Adolescents (N = 233) from a specialist CALD school completed a questionnaire with the help of interpreters.
Results
The exploratory factor analysis indicated a 19‐item scale, Acculturation and Resilience Scale for Adolescents (AARS‐A) with a three‐factor structure: Acculturation Host, Acculturation Heritage, and Resilience. The revised scale had sound internal consistency and convergent and divergent validity. Girls, compared to boys, emerged as more integrated in the new society. Further, those who reported higher English language proficiency and had a permanent visa status highlighted integration through a strong link with their own culture and the host society.
Conclusion
AARS‐A is a promising scale, which can be used with CALD adolescents to measure positive aspects of acculturation and resilience. Future directions and implications are discussed.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors would like to thank the staff and students of Milpera State High School.