Asian-Australian hyphenated identification: Self and other perceptions and their implications for intergroup relations

Abstract

Some minorities identify as bicultural seeing both their ethnic and national cultural identities as important to their self-concept. Importantly, recent research and theory is suggesting that a bicultural identity is not always captured by these existing identity categories. Alternatively, some minorities identify with an additional hyphenated identity (e.g., Chinese-Australian). This identity, however, may not always be acknowledged by majority individuals. This thesis explores ways in which such misrecognitions can be addressed within Australian society by i) exploring the relevance of hyphenated identification amongst Asian-Australians; ii) evaluating the extent to which other's acknowledgement of Asian-Australians’ hyphenated identity has a positive impact on the self and on outgroup attitudes towards majority Anglo-Australians; and iii) how attitudes regarding the representation of Australian national identity can be changed to become more inclusive of minorities’ identities through adopting dual-identity representations of Australian national identity. Five studies were designed to address these aims. In conclusion, the thesis found evidence to support the relevance of hyphenated identities for minority Asian-Australians’ sense of self as well as preliminary evidence to suggest that others' recognition of Asian-Australians' hyphenated identities, may be important for perceived acceptance from others. Social-cultural factors within Australian society, however, may act as barriers against the recognition of hyphenated identities. This thesis contributes to research in acculturation, biculturalism, and intergroup relations by underscoring the importance of more holistic intervention approaches, which include minorities' perceptions of self and perspectives during intergroup interactions. Thus, these findings will have practical implications for improving the quality of group relations in an ever increasing multicultural Australian society.