Fluid Identity And Cultural Sensitivity in Youth

Abstract

This is a study on fluid identity and cultural sensitivity in youth. It is important to demonstrate how an individual’s fluid identity can help the individual understand who they are. The need for individuals today to develop cross-cultural competencies and sensitivities is becoming more necessary, especially for youth who are developing their identity. Fluid identity can be described as an identity that is constantly changing or is constantly evolving. Both cultural identity and cultural experiences effect how individuals perceive their world, their beliefs and values. Within this study, the participants will be Canadian students, International students, and youth who have attended international summer camps in Switzerland. I am hypothesizing Canadian students will have a strong identity and fewer international experiences and will therefore score lower on cultural sensitivity. Similarly, I am hypothesizing that youth with international experiences, the International students and Camp youth, will report more fluid identities, and will therefore score higher on cultural sensitivity. In this study identity commitment and cultural sensitivity will be measured through the online survey that involves participant endorsing responses associated with higher sensitivity towards youth of multiple nationalities, race, ethnicities, religions, and beliefs. This study will allow exploration of whether or not international/exposure to multiple cultures experiences enhances cultural sensitivity by allowing a comparison between students with many international/exposure to multiple cultures and students with limited experiences.