How multiracial emerging adults experience discrimination: a qualitative study.

backgroundThe number of multiracial people in the United States is increasing each year, yet there is a lack of research, particularly qualitative research, that sheds light on their distinctive lived experiences. Multiracial people have unique experiences compared to their monoracial peers because face multiple forms of discrimination: white supremacy-based racism, similar to that faced by non-white monoracial people, and unique forms such as identity invalidation. Previous research often frames a multiracial identity as strictly a source of challenges, which is a harmful stereotype promoting racism and overlooking the resilience, community strength, and other positive aspects that can accompany multiracial identities. This research is intended to explore the nuanced perspectives of multiracial individuals to better address and prevent the harmful impacts that racism has on mental and physical wellbeing. The purpose of this study is to explore how emerging adults who identify as multi-racial describe experiences with discrimination due to their multiracial identity.

methodsThis was a qualitative study conducted with emerging multiracial adults (aged 18-30 years) living in the United States. The data was collected through 21 virtual in-depth interviews using a semi-structured interview guide covering racial and ethnic identification, childhood and upbringing, family influence, peer engagement, health and wellbeing, experiences of discrimination, forming resilience, language, and demographics. The interviews were transcribed for thematic analysis.

resultsThematic analysis of transcripts explored the various forms of discrimination participants experienced and its impacts on their lives, health, and wellbeing. Participants described diverse experiences of discrimination, along with social and professional difficulties and benefits tied to their identity. Many also reported adverse mental and physical health effects resulting from racism, but also spoke about the resilience, skills, and sense of community they developed in response.

conclusionParticipants' identities, experiences, and outcomes varied greatly, supporting the fact that multiracial people are not a monolithic group and that their identities carry unique benefits and challenges. The importance of understanding the lived experiences of multiracial people is becoming more essential as the number of people who identify as multiracial increases.