The Relation of Acculturation and Values in Mexican Americans

Abstract

The correspondence between degree of acculturation and values was studied in a sample of first generation Mexican Americans, 42 identified as highly acculturated and 42 as low acculturated, by administration of the Rokeach Value Survey in either English or Spanish. The obtained protocols were compared with national norms provided by Rokeach, and with a local group of 62 Anglos. The results show considerable variability across groups for specific values, minimal sex differences, but a greater correspondence of values between high acculturation and comparison groups than between low acculturation and comparison groups. A discriminant function analysis indicated that six of seven factors distinguish high from low acculturation subjects with a hit rate of 78%. The results are discussed in relation to acculturation and assimilation, and the limitations of a cross-cultural cross-sectional approach.

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