Understanding the Multidimensionality of Acculturation Among Chinese Canadians

This study evaluated a multidomain bidimensional model of acculturation among Chinese Canadians. A total of 234 university students completed measures assessing internal and external domains of Chinese and Canadian dimensions of acculturation. The results of factor analyses showed that the Chinese dimension of acculturation included internal and external domains as expected, but that the Canadian dimension included only one domain. The emergence of a third factor reflected individuals' evaluation of their cultural group as distinct from their identification with that group. The different domains of acculturation showed varying relations with participants' extent of contact with Chinese and Canadian cultures and with chronological age. Implications of these findings for research methodology and for understanding Chinese Canadians are discussed.