Multiracial identity integration: Components, antecedents, and consequences

• Main Author: WEE, Sheila Xi Rui
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 2023
• Subjects: Multiracials; Multiracial Identity Integration; Identity Denial; Identity Inquiry; Cognitive Capacity; Cognitive Psychology; Race and Ethnicity
• Online Access: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/etd_coll/508; https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/context/etd_coll/article/1506/viewcontent/Sheila_Wee_Xi_Rui_Dissertation.pdf
• Institution: Singapore Management University

Existing research on multiracials has examined how multiracials develop different racial identities. However, empirical research on how multiracial manage and integrate their identities as well as its impact are limited. This dissertation examined key antecedents and consequences associated with the unique process that multiracials undergo to achieve a positive identity via Multiracial Identity Integration (MII). In Study 1, we examined the link between MII, psychological well-being, and cognitive capacity. Results revealed a positive association between MII and psychological well-being as well as some cognitive capacity outcomes. Study 2 replicated the same relationship between MII and psychological well-being/cognitive capacity outcomes. Additionally, multiracials’ experiences with identity denial and identity inquiry were negatively associated with multiracials’ MII. The relationship between identity denial and psychological well-being/cognitive capacity outcomes were mediated by MII. Studies 3 and 4 examined if MII would moderate the interpretation of identity-related questions and if manipulated experiences of identity denial and identity inquiry would impact multiracials’ MII respectively. The findings from both studies were nonsignificant. Together, this dissertation illuminated the antecedents and consequences associated with a healthy multiracial identity via MII. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.