Identity Development and Self-Esteem of First-Generation American College Students: An Exploratory Study

Based on Chickering's model, differences in self-esteem and identity development among first-generation American (FGA) college students and non first-generation American (NFGA) students were examined. FGAs were the first generation born in the U.S. to one or both parents born and raised in another country. All participants responded to the Erwin Identity Scale and the Index of Self-Esteem. Results indicated that FGAs reported significantly higher self-esteem than the NFGAs. This research adds to the body of knowledge concerning multicultural issues of development in college students. Implications for college counselors and other student affairs professionals are addressed.