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Socioeconomic Mobility among Three Generations of Japanese Americans 1
Author(s) -
Levine Gene N.,
Montero Darrel M.
Publication year - 1973
Publication title -
journal of social issues
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.618
H-Index - 122
eISSN - 1540-4560
pISSN - 0022-4537
DOI - 10.1111/j.1540-4560.1973.tb00071.x
Subject(s) - socioeconomic status , cultural assimilation , subculture (biology) , sociology , gender studies , economic growth , demographic economics , political science , psychology , demography , ethnic group , economics , population , anthropology , botany , biology
Data from a three generational survey of Japanese Americans indicate that the occupational and educational attainments of the first generation (Issei) are reflected in the achievements of the second and third generations. Findings suggest that two different currents flow in the Japanese American community, one relatively traditional, the other more assimilationist. It is expected that only assimilationists will survive—but in a modified fashion. The majority of the Sansei queried indicate an interest in Japanese ways while still embracing the primary goals of American society and its emphasis on socioeconomic success in particular. Although the ban on outmarriage is breaking down, a majority of Sansei have married or intend to marry within the fold. While the Japanese Americans have successfully accommodated to the American situation—especially by correctly gauging the great importance of education, there is little evidence that the subculture will soon wither away.