| Summary: | This study identified some of the ways that multiethnic women describe their ethnic
identities, how they perceive ethnic-specific gender identities and what they think are
appropriate norms for, and effective outcomes of, communicative behavior. Twelve
multiethnic women described their ethnic identity names or labels, and ethnic-specific gender
identities; they also recalled a recent situation in which inappropriate ethnic-relevant
conversational behaviors occurred. These multiethnic women were found to share an
average of nearly six situations in which ethnic identity is most important; the most frequently
reported situation being constantly. They significantly differed in respect to the names or
labels, and descriptors they used to define and describe their multiethnic identities. The 12
respondents unanimously stated that there are different expectations for women and men
within the ethnicities that they identified as components of their multiethnicity. The most
frequently cited situation in which it is most important for them to intensify their gender
identity is during celebratory occasions and at home or with family. 10 of the total 12
respondents perceive that their gender identity is shared by a large number of other people.
Recently recalled conversations indicate that work and employment-related individuals
specifically discussing ethnicity, most frequently used inappropriate communicative
behaviors. The most frequently reported situation in which they intensify their multiethnic
identities is while being with other ethnic ingroup members, though 75% of them indicated
that their particular definition of their ethnic identity was shared by only a small number of
other people. Nearly 70% responded that they very often--on a daily or weekly basis--experience
others' violation of rules for competent communication. The most frequently cited
recommendations they made for others to be more competent communicators were: 1) get
informed/take some ethnicity classes, and don't be so harsh; 2) give individuals credit for
being unique and diverse; 3) be polite/respectful; 4) recognize and refrain from stereotyping;
5) don't be prejudiced and change feelings/perceptions about ethnicized individuals &
groups; 6) don't assume, approach individuals directly and don't discriminate. === Graduation date: 1994
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