Ethnic Identity Measurement and Verification

We show how identity theory can provide a coherent theoretical framework for understanding people’s ethnic identity meanings and behavior across an ethnically diverse sample. Using a mixed-methods approach, we developed measures of respondents’ ethnic identity that reveal two separate though related dimensions of meaning that are relevant for all respondents. One of these is oriented toward ethnic group membership focused on the heritage and traditions of members. The other is oriented toward ethnic role behavior, focused on the role performances that maintain and display one’s ethnic identity meanings. We examine how respondents’ level of knowledge and certainty of their ethnicity, as well as generation in the U.S., influence the difficulty respondents report verifying their ethnic identity. Results show identity theory is well positioned to understand respondents’ ethnic identity and the difficulties they experience. In addition, we provide a theoretical explanation for why respondents feel uneasy when their ethnic identity claims are not accepted by others.