Korean adoptee identity: Adoptive and ethnic identity profiles of adopted Korean Americans

Abstract

Adopted Koreans often emphasize their status as adopted individuals and ethnic Koreans simultaneously, highlighting the importance of considering both social identities. To explore these multiple social identities, I conducted a person-centered study of the identity profiles of 189 adopted Korean American adolescents. Using cluster analytic procedures, I examined patterns of commitment to ethnic and adoptive identities, revealing six conceptually unique identity clusters. Analyzing the association between these identity profiles and psychological adjustment, I found the identity profiles were undifferentiated with respect to behavioral development and risk behaviors. However, group differences were found on life satisfaction, school adjustment, and family functioning. Results confirm the importance of considering the differential impact of multiple social identity configurations on a variety of outcomes.