Preliminary communication

Identities among Youth in a Multicultural Neighbourhood

Abdeljalil Akkari ; University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Christiane Perregaux ; University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
Filippo Cataffi ; University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland

Abstract

In this study the identities of youth, ages 11−12, who live in a multicultural neighbourhood in Geneva, Switzerland were investigated. In an attempt to capture the multiple dimensions that comprise these identities, the authors generated a methodological approach that allowed participants to describe themselves in their own terms. Using the metaphor of a flower, they developed a "cultural flower," in which respondents fill in the many petals descriptors they choose to represent themselves. In addition to this open-ended qualitative approach, a sociometric questionnaire was also administered. Three main categories emerged from this study: individual social identities, territorial collective identities, and cultural heritage identities. From these findings, it is suggested that the identities of youth in this sample cannot be reduced to only one descriptive element such as nationality or ethnicity. Rather, these findings suggest that youth have multidimensional identities that may be expressed in "youth culture" (music, clothes, sports). This study stimulates the area of research on intercultural relations by highlighting commonalties among youth from varying cultural backgrounds who live in a multicultural neighbourhood.

Keywords

identity; multiculturality; ethnicity; youth; Geneva

Hrčak ID:

126520

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/126520

Publication date:

30.12.1998.

Article data in other languages: croatian

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