National (Dis)identification and Ethnic and Religious Identity: A Study Among Turkish-Dutch Muslims

TLDR

The study investigates national (dis)identification among Turkish‑Dutch Muslims across three studies, examining the roles of ethnic identity, combined ethnic and religious identity, and multiple dimensions of religious identity. Participants displayed low national commitment and high ethnic and religious identification, with ethnic and Muslim identifications negatively linked to Dutch identification; perceived group rejection heightened minority and religious identification while reducing Dutch identification, partially mediated by minority group identification.

Abstract

National (dis)identification is examined in three studies among Turkish-Dutch Muslim participants. In explaining national (dis)identification, the first study focuses on ethnic identity, the second on ethnic and religious identity, and the third on three dimensions of religious identity. Many participants show low commitment to the nation, and many indicate national disidentification. In addition, there is very strong ethnic and religious identification. Ethnic and Muslim identifications relate negatively to Dutch identification and, in Study 3, to stronger Dutch disidentification. Furthermore, perceived group rejection is associated with increased ethnic minority and religious identification but also with decreased national Dutch identification. In addition, in Studies 1 and 2 the effect of perceived rejection on Dutch identification is (partly) mediated by minority group identification. The findings are discussed in relation to social psychological thinking about group identification, dual identities, and the importance of religion for intergroup relations.