Motivation for Ethno-Cultural Continuity as a Predictor of Acculturation and Adaptation in Two Generations of Latvian Russians

Abstract

The paper presents the results of empirical research on the relationship of motivation for ethno-cultural continuity and strategies of acculturation of the Russian minority in Latvia. We sampled 112 Russian families (parents: N=112, age 35-59, Me=42; adolescents: N=112, age 16-24, Me=17). A questionnaire included measures of motivation for ethno-cultural continuity, acculturation strategies, sociocultural adaptation and self-esteem. Using structural equation modeling we revealed that motivation for ethno-cultural continuity, assimilation strategy, self-esteem and sociocultural adaptation of parents are significantly related to those of their children. We found positive relationships of motivation for ethno-cultural continuity with a strategy of integration and self-esteem among parents, and of motivation for ethno-cultural continuity and self-esteem among children. Motivation for ethno-cultural continuity of adolescents associates with their preference for separation. Integration positively relates to self-esteem and sociocultural adaptation, while assimilation, marginalization and separation strategies relate negatively to self-esteem in both generations.

Keywords: motivation for ethno-cultural continuity, acculturation, adaptation, ethnic minorities, integration, well-being

JEL Classification: Z