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Biracial individuals have unique experiences that shape their identity and, subsequently, their mental health. We examined biracial Asian Americans at a Christian university, studying the relationship between racial-ethnic identity, racial invalidations, and mental health. Our sample consisted of undergraduate students that identified as biracial Asian American (N = 57). We predicted that racial-ethnic identity would be correlated with positive mental health (Hypothesis 1) and that experiencing racial invalidations would be correlated with negative mental health (Hypothesis 2). Participants completed an online survey containing demographic questions and measures related to the study variables. Hypothesis 1 was partially supported, as a stronger Asian identity was associated with higher life satisfaction. Experiencing racial invalidations was associated with depression and anxiety, largely supporting Hypothesis 2. These findings indicate the importance of studying biracial Asian Americans' experiences, especially on Christian campuses that intend to promote an inclusive environment for all students. Further research should continue to consider other identities within the biracial and multiracial category and their related experiences.
In 2018, almost 11 million Americans identified as biracial, or 3.40% of the United States population (U.S. Census Bureau, 2018). Of these individuals, around three million identified as biracial Asian Americans, with Asian-White Americans as the 2nd largest group of biracial individuals behind Black-White Americans (U.S. Census Bureau, 2018). Hence, biracial individuals, including biracial individuals who are Asian American, comprise a significant proportion of the American population. As the population of biracial and multiracial individuals in the U.S continues to grow, it is important to consider the distinct racial-ethnic identity development these individuals experience, within the umbrella terms of "biracial" or "multiracial." One aim of the present study is to examine the biracial identity of Asian American college students and how this identity might relate to well-being and mental health.
Biracial Asian Americans might experience unique racialized experiences that influence their mental health. Moreover, these culture-specific experiences and associations with mental health do not occur in a vacuum, as systems or institutions that individuals are embedded in can influence the frequency and impact of these experiences. Because of this, it is important that psychological research with biracial Asian Americans is intentional about the backdrop against which racialized experiences might be happening. Our study seeks to highlight the experiences of biracial...