Depth and Breadth of Ethnic/Racial Self-Labeling Among Second-Generation Asian American Emerging Adults

Abstract

Ethnic/racial self-labeling reflects individuals’ self-perceptions and group affiliations. Using survey and interview data from 63 second-generation Asian American emerging adults, this study examined the breadth (number) and depth (personal significance) of self-labels across identity statuses defined by exploration and commitment. Results show that self-labeling varied by identity status where the Unexamined group favored ethnic-American labels tied to socially recognizable markers, the Achieved group used labels reflecting integrated, nuanced identities, and the Moratorium group adopted diverse labels, highlighting active exploration. These findings expand prior work on ethnic/racial self-labeling elaboration by illustrating how both internal identity processes and sociocultural influences shape label breadth and depth.