The New Second Generation: Segmented Assimilation and its Variants

TLDR

Post‑1965 immigration has generated a vigorous literature on adult newcomers, yet the emerging second generation’s adaptation prospects cannot be inferred from their parents’ experiences or from early European immigrant children. The study presents data on the contemporary second generation and reviews the challenges they face in adapting to American society. It introduces the concept of segmented assimilation and employs modes of incorporation to develop a typology of vulnerability and resources that shape adaptation outcomes. Empirical case studies illustrate the theory and highlight the consequences of varying contextual situations for today’s second generation.

Abstract

Post-1965 immigration to the United States has given rise to a vigorous literature focused on adult newcomers. There is, however, a growing new second generation whose prospects of adaptation cannot be gleaned from the experience of their parents or from that of children of European immigrants arriving at the turn of the century. We present data on the contemporary second generation and review the challenges that it confronts in seeking adaptation to American society. The concept of segmented assimilation is introduced to describe the diverse possible outcomes of this process of adaptation. The concept of modes of incorporation is used for developing a typology of vulnerability and resources affecting such outcomes. Empirical case studies illustrate the theory and highlight consequences of the different contextual situations facing today's second generation.