On both sides of the hyphen: Exploring the Filipino-American identity.

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to compare the ethnic identities of 2 groups of Filipino Americans, 1 born in the United States and 1 born in the Philippines. Results from consensual qualitative research analysis (C. E. Hill et al., 2005; C. E. Hill, B. J. Thompson, & E. N. Williams, 1997) suggested that U.S.-born participants saw the distinguishing feature of their identity as the lifestyle, that is, the availability of material goods and technology. Typically, these participants were curious and wanted to explore their Filipino American identity, which they saw as influenced by both Philippine and U.S. cultures. Philippine-born individuals, in contrast, identified the following important aspects of their identity: valuing family relationships; being hospitable, polite, and respectful; having faith in God; speaking Tagalog; and having Filipino physical characteristics. Although most of the latter individuals defined their identity as a combination of both cultures, they were more likely than the U.S.-born participants to view themselves as primarily Filipino and the American aspect of their identity as a result of circumstance.