The Impact of Acculturation on Self-Esteem and Self-Concept in Iranian American Young Adults
[Thesis]
Jabbari, Roujin
Michaels, Jerry
Alliant International University
2020
158 p.
Psy.D.
Alliant International University
2020
The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of acculturation on the self-esteem and self-concept of Iranian American young adults living in the United States. Specifically, the focus was on how orienting towards one's heritage culture, the host culture, or both cultures would impact how individuals feel about themselves and view themselves. An online survey collected data on the young adult's demographic features, self-esteem, self-concept, and acculturation style. The final sample consisted of 128 young adults between the ages of 22 to 37. Of the 128 participants, 62% identified as female and 38% as male. In terms of generational status, 35% respondents endorsed being first generation immigrants, 62.5% were second generation immigrants, and 1.5% were third generation. A series of linear regressions were used to assess the relationship between acculturation orientations and self-esteem and self-concept, in addition to assessments of quadratic effects. Hierarchical regressions were used to assess interaction effects of Anglo and Iranian acculturation orientations and their relative impact on self-esteem and self-concept. Lastly, two-tailed t-tests were used to assess gender and generational differences on self-esteem and self-concept. Results from this study suggest that there is a positive linear association between Anglo acculturation style and both self-esteem and self-concept; no significant relationship was found between Iranian acculturation style and self-esteem and self-concept. Results from the study did not detect a quadratic or moderating effect between the variables. There were no significant relationships found between genders and generational status on self-esteem and self-concept. Limitations, clinical implications, and direction for future research was also discussed.