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Dimensions of biculturalism: the development of bicultural identity orientation scale (BIOS)
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- Author / Creator
- Comanaru, Ruxandra-Silvia
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Four studies (focus groups, exploratory and confirmatory analysis, and follow-up interviews) were designed to investigate people's experiences of biculturalism, particularly as they related to ethnic identity, identity conflict and integration, and hybridity, and to develop a new instrument that would better tap at the concept of biculturalism. Previous literature conducted by Benet-Martinez (2002, 2005) identified two relevant axes for bicultural identity: conflict-harmony and distance-overlap, while Yip (2005), Phinney (1991) and Noels (2004) emphasized the role of context for biculturals. We identified five interrelated dimensions, which provide a better understanding of the experiences of biculturalism. These dimensions are conflict (a perceived discord between the two cultures), monocultural orientation (the desire to be part of only one of the two cultures), flexibility (the alternation of behaviours and attitudes depending on the context), compatibility (perceived congruence between the two cultures) and hybridity (the blend of the two cultures to create one). A new instrument, the Bicultural Identity Orientation Scale, was developed based on the literature review and the anecdotal evidence provided by the participants. The instrument showed validity and reliability. The implications and future directions are discussed in light of the findings.
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- Subjects / Keywords
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- Graduation date
- Fall 2009
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- Type of Item
- Thesis
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- Degree
- Master of Arts
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- License
- This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.