Being Authentically Native American: Identity Non-Verification, Identity Change, and Social Structure among New Indians

• In Event: 329 - Regular Session. Social Psychology

Abstract

This research uses identity theory to describe the experiences of “new Indians” in an urban setting. “New Indians” are individuals who have reclaimed previously lost or hidden Native American identities. Because they often lack phenotypic traits associated with Indianness and official verification of their Native American identities (e.g., tribal enrollment, federal recognition), new Indians struggle to gain verification of their self-meanings as authentic Native Americans. Using qualitative methods, we show how individuals reclaiming Native American identities construct a new identity standard centered on practices rather than blood quantum or tribal enrollment. We also show that new Indians accomplish identity change, in part, by constructing a new proximate social structure that supports the new identity standard. As one of the few qualitative studies using the identity verification model, this research contributes to identity theory by elucidating the process of ethnic identity change. In addition, the study demonstrates how identity processes both flow from and contribute to social structure.

Authors

• Michelle Renee Jacobs, State University of New York-Plattsburgh

• David M. Merolla, Wayne State University