Orthogonal versus linear models of acculturation among immigrant Chinese Canadians: A comparison of mothers, fathers, and children

Abstract

A multidimensional model of acculturation was examined among 96 immigrant Chinese families living in Canada. All parents were foreign-born, as were 75% of children (average age 12). Each family member completed measures of cultural orientation (behavioural practices), identity, and cultural values. An orthogonal model of acculturation (e.g., host and ethnic culture affiliations are independent rather than linear) was clearly supported for fathers and children. For fathers and foreign-born children, greater involvement in Canadian culture was not associated with a diminishment of ethnic identity or values. For Canadian-born children, this involvement seemed to foster, rather than reduce, the endorsement of ethnic identity and traditional values. For mothers, ethnic and host cultural domains were modestly negatively correlated, providing less support for the orthogonal model. Results are discussed in relation to the conditions that may foster orthogonal versus linear models of acculturation.