Identity as a key factor in the acculturation of young Moroccan-Dutch adults

Abstract

Many young Moroccan-Dutch in transition within the Dutch society face acculturation challenges and have limited social resources. We examined how different access to social capital (supportive networks among family, friends, and neighbourhood) and social identity of Moroccan-Dutch students (N = 172) aged 17 to 33 years are associated with their acculturation outcomes. A path analysis showed that those with a stronger Moroccan-Islamic identity had more negative outcomes and less contact with mainstream Dutch. Co-ethnic support was related negatively to mainstream identity, but positively to co-ethnic ties and perceived exclusion problems in contact with Dutch. Conversely, Dutch support was negatively associated with ethnic identity and exclusion, but positively with Dutch ties and well-being. Participants had an orientation on either the Dutch or Moroccan culture. We conclude that young Moroccan-Dutch do not pursue integration (combining two cultures), and that those who adjust well, have more supportive Dutch and social networks, feel and do much better in the Dutch society than those who separate.