Ethnic identity involves an individual’s belonging to a certain race, tribe, or color which may be based on a specific social or cultural group. Ethnic identity has been an aspect of concern in the current times due to its importance in diverse disciplines (Sue W. & Sue D., 2015). These include psychology, delivery of healthcare services, and sociology. Early personal experiences influence positive or negative ethnic identity of persons of color in different ways. Positive or negative feelings have been tied to the development process of individuals as this shapes the perceptions of certain cultural groups (Sue W. & Sue D., 2015).
Positive feelings related to early experiences may lead to better social interactions and self esteem that may prevent depression and other negative behaviors associated with negative feelings (Ryder et al., 2014). Ethnic identity is a complex issue as this plays an important role in how individuals address most of the social issues impacting their lives. How an individual feels about his/her ethnic identity is largely based on his/her early experiences (Ryder et al., 2014). An example may involve discrimination among African Americans in school or social gatherings that may contribute to psychological issues. These individuals may have a negative perception related to their ethnic identity (Ryder et al., 2014).
Research has also indicated that when young individuals are exposed to negative experiences, this promotes negative feelings about their ethnic identity. This is also the case for positive experiences which promote positive identity (Sue W. & Sue D., 2015). An example in this case may involve parents who educate their children about their cultural heritage. This may encourage and motivate the children in adopting healthy behaviors as well as identify opportunities that can benefit the children in diverse aspects (Sue W. & Sue D., 2015).
This may also help the children in preventing some of the risks that are associated with negative experiences that may include indulgence to drug use and violent behaviors (Sue W. & Sue D., 2015).
References
- Ryder, A. G., Dere, J., Sun, J., & Chentsova-Dutton, Y. E. (2014). The cultural shaping of personality disorder. APA handbook of multicultural psychology, Vol. 2. Applications and training (pp. 307-328). Washington, DC, US: American Psychological Association.
- Sue, D. W., & Sue, D. (2016). Counseling the culturally diverse: Theory and practice. Hoboken: Wiley.
