Racial Socialization Experiences Among 1.5 and 2nd Generation Indian Americans

Abstract

Few studies have focused on the racial socialization of Indian Americans, particularly those raised in the United States. The present study explored 1.5 and 2nd generation Indian Americans’ experiences of racial socialization in multiple contexts. Forty-four adult Indian Americans from diverse regions of the United States participated in semi-structured focus group interviews via video teleconference. Sixteen participants were 1.5 generation and 28 were 2nd generation. Data was analyzed using grounded theory. The results indicated three interrelated domains including: (a) Discussion of Race and Racism; (b) Awareness of Self in the Context of Racial and Cultural Differences; and (c) Role of Intra- and Inter-group Biases. The findings underscore how the minimization of racism within and outside of Indian American contexts, a colonial mentality transmitted intergenerationally, and negative impacts of casteism, sexism, and racism may influence one’s racial consciousness and racial socialization. Implications for culturally informed research, practice, advocacy, and training are detailed.