Discuss how Latino identity is created, negotiated and performed in the U.S.
Latinos are the fastest growing ethnic group in America. According to the last census, the researchers have been predicting that Latinos will be the largest minority group in the United States by 2020 (Torres, 2003). The dramatic increase in Latino population has been estimated to be 57.9% in last fifteen years, which is the largest increase of any racial or ethnic group in America. This rapid increase in the population calls for the understanding of identity development of this particular group, keeping in mind the vast range of diversity that group holds within its large ethnic boundaries. Identity development of Latinos in America can be understood through different perspectives, one of which is identity development theory. This approach attempts to explain the developmental processes of Latino population which basically takes into account the sense of self as part of an ethnic culture. This sense of self is mitigated by the choices made between American and Latino cultures and plays a significant role in development of identity. Another important aspect of Latino identity comes from the unique historical and sociological context of America that creates the basis of Latino identity (Torres & Magolda, 2004).
The Latino identity development is crucial due to its vastness and being a dynamic process that involves the interrelationships between different dimensions of development and change. There is a need to understand identity formation at individual level, which involves personal coping strategies and adaptability as well as at a larger group level that involves collective construction, identification and belonging at a macro level. The social and cultural environment, institutions, a positive sense of sense and individual’s cognitive development influence the identity formation and effects overall well-being and mental health of the individual. Research has found that those Latinos who have achieved positive and secure sense of self and strong sense of belonging to their ethnicity tend to have higher self-esteem and overall mental health (Greig, 2003).
References:
Greig, M. (2003). Ethnic identity development: Implications for mental health in African-American and Hispanic adolescents. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 24 (3), 317-331. doi: 10.1080/01612840305278
Torres, V., & Magolda, B, M. (2004). Reconstructing Latino identity: The influence of cognitive development on the ethnic identity process of Latino students. Journal of College Student Development, 45 (3), 333-347.
Torres, V. (2003). Influences on ethnic identity development of Latino college students in the first two years of college. Journal of College Student Development, 44 (4), 532-547.
You’ve read a psychology essay sample that demonstrates how an academic paper should be written. However if you can’t handle essay writing, get help from WriteMyPapersOnline. With our help, you can forget about your worries as our writers are professionals in academic writing. All you have to do is to place an order on our site including all your requirements and setting the deadline.