Ethnic Identity and Self-Esteem in Khasi Youth

Self-esteem is likely derived from an array of identities, including ethnic identity especially for minority youth. Indeed, ethnic identity has been found to be positively correlated with self-esteem for adolescents and youth of different minority groups. In a country like India with a huge population, the Khasis of Meghalaya form a minority group, which have been subjected to socio-political influence or change in different forms throughout history. Although the Khasis have retained their tribal status, perceptions of ethnicity and group belonging may have changed due to such influences.  This study examined the relation of ethnic identity to self-esteem among Khasi youth of Meghalaya, taking into consideration the gender differences within this group. The sample included 100 male and 100 female college students aged 18 to 25 years. Using a correlational methodology, results indicated a weak positive correlation only between Ethnic Identity Scale (EIS) sub-scale Resolution and self-esteem measured by the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. In addition, t-tests resulted in the rejection of the null hypothesis for EIS Affirmation and EIS Exploration, but not for EIS Resolution or self-esteem. Therefore, gender difference is found to be significant only for the affirmation and exploration subscales of the EIS. Such differences are discussed within the context of the Khasi matrilineal culture of Meghalaya, India.