The Structure and Specifics of the Ethnic Picture of the World Among Representatives of the Chinese Ethnic Group Living in Different Countries

Abstract

Abstract

Background. The study is driven by current trends of expanding globalization, intercultural communication, and international migration.

Objective. To analyze the influence of the cultural and social environment on the ethnic auto- and hetero stereotypes of Chinese respondents living abroad.

Study Participants. The study involved 404 Chinese students (54.5% males) aged 18 to 35 (mean age 20.4±2.7), from multiple educational levels, residing in four countries (China, USA, Japan, and Russia).

Methods. To obtain empirical data, the study implemented the psycho-semantic method “Ethnic Image”, which contains 74 items describing the characteristics of various ethnic groups. The subjects for evaluation included 17 nationalities represented in the consciousness of Chinese respondents.

Results. The study has identified the categories defining the semantic space of the ethnic consciousness of Chinese respondents: 1. Positive attitude, 2. Hostility, 3. Civilized behavior, 4. Ethnic exogamy, 5. Cultural insularity, 6. National values and traditions, 7. Liberal and democratic values, 8. Deviance. The data analysis demonstrated the nature of changes in the ethnic worldview depending on cultural influences.

Conclusions. The categories of the semantic space are more stable entities and are less susceptible to changes compared to the attitudes toward different ethnic groups, which vary depending on the country of residence. The assessment of one's own and other ethnic groups is influenced by the history of relationships between these ethnicities and the homeland as well as the geopolitical and cultural context of the place of residence. Respondents living outside their homeland exhibit a broader understanding of the cultural and social characteristics of other ethnic groups.

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