The role of multiple identities and acculturation strategies in the psychological well-being of Crimean Tatars: Intergenerational analysis

Abstract

Recent geopolitical transformations in the Crimea have been challenging for all residents of the peninsula–both ethnic majority and ethnic minorities. The present study aims to examine the role ofmultiple identities and acculturation strategies in psychological well-being of two generations of Crimean Tatars. Young generation of the Crimean Tatars (under 35 years old) was socialized mostly in the Ukrainian context, while Crimean Tatars of the older generation (over 35 years old) spent part of their life outside of the Crimea during the deportation. The sample included269Crimean Tatars (75% female) from 17 to 66years old.The following methods were applied: scales for identities, acculturation strategies, the Satisfaction with Life Scale by Dienerand the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Results showed that ethnic identity predicts self-esteem for both generations, and life satisfaction for younggeneration only. Among the younger generation of Crimean Tatars ethnic identity is positively related with the preference for integration, while place identity is positively related with the preference for separation. Integration strategy promotes life-satisfaction and self-esteemfor older generation, while separation strategy predictslife-satisfactionfor young generation of Crimean Tatars. The findings are discussedgiven thehistorical, political and social context of the Crimea.