The socialization of cultural values, ethnic identity, and prosocial behaviors is examined in a sample of 749 Mexican-American adolescents, ages 9-12; M (SD) = 10.42 years (0.55); 49% female, their mothers, and fathers at the 5th, 7th, and 10th grades. Parents' familism values positively predicted their ethnic socialization practices. Mothers'…

In this article, we explore three anthropological approaches to science education research: funds of knowledge, third space/hybridity and practice theory. Definitions, historical origins, uses and constraints of each approach are included along with reviews of exemplary studies in each tradition. We show that funds of knowledge research draws on…

The current study considers methodological challenges in developmental research with linguistically diverse samples of young adolescents. By empirically examining the cross-language measurement equivalence of a measure assessing three components of ethnic identity development (i.e., exploration, resolution, and affirmation) among Mexican American…

This paper argues that the identification of individuals with a certain ethnic grouping may have a significant impact on the way they communicate with others. It contends also that the way in which people's style is used and interpreted by others directly influences their effectiveness in communicative interactions. The communicative styles of…

Mexican-American college students (N=109) with varying commitments to Mexican-American or Anglo-American culture rated their preference for an ethnically similar counselor. Results showed preference for counselor ethnicity and willingness to self-disclose in counseling were related to cultural commitment. Females were more willing to use…

Studies four distinct groups based on language and nativity within the Mexican-descent population in the U.S. Reports significant differences among groups on (1) demographics; (2) self-labeling in the family and among others of Mexican descent; and (3) perceptions of how others label them. (TES)

Examines the beliefs of college-educated Chicanas regarding ethnic identification, preferred endogamy, and male perceptions of their achievements. Concludes that these women attempt to integrate traditional female role behavior with newly achieved professional status. (FMW)

Examines proverb use among 304 Mexican Americans (aged 16-85) of Los Angeles (California), assembling information on how or where particular proverbs were learned, with whom or what kind of individual their use is associated, the occasions on which they are used, and general attitudes toward the use of proverbs. (LC)

Relationships between participant ethnicity, acculturation level, counselor model of helping, and ratings of counselor credibility were examined using an analogue research design (N=199). Results suggest that aspects of Mexican American culture support the use of, rather than underutilize, counseling services. Implications for counselors and…

Applies palimpsest as model for recognizing Chicano cultural diversity. Promotes interdisciplinary approach to Chicano studies. Examines Aztlan (Aztec homeland) as historical place and nationalist symbol obscuring Chicano identity and Mesoamerican diversity. Encourages use of palimpsest as conceptual tool for Chicano studies, cultural identity,…

Focuses on variations in perceptions and conceptions of machismo within Mexican and Latino culture. Studies how Latino fathers living in United States perceive machismo, utilizing data from in-depth interviews. Identifies two models of masculinity, one as compensation for powerlessness, the other grounded in ethics, honor, and courage. (TES)

Surveys of 135 young adults of Mexican descent and their parents found that parents' and children's descriptions of themselves in terms of cultural identity were similar. Differences were a function of the accuracy of young adults' perceptions of their parents' beliefs and their desire to be like their mother. (Contains 24 references.) (Author/SV)

A 12-item acculturation scale developed for Hispanics correlated highly with the respondents' generation, length of residence in the United States, age at arrival, ethnic self-identification, and with an acculturation scale. Language use, media preferences, and ethnic social relations were the three factors accounting for 67.6 percent of the total…

A common assumption among many social scientists is that identification with Mexican-American culture inhibits the development of a positive self-concept and upward mobility among members of this group. Consequently, many sectors of society have argued that complete acculturation is the most desirable goal for the Mexican-American population. The…

Aspects of a theoretical model of the socialization of ethnic identity were tested for 45 6- to 10-year-old Mexican-American children and their mothers. As predicted, socialization indices functioned as a mediator of the influence of ethnic family background on children's ethnic identity. (SLD)