“We can make an impact”: A mixed method examination of Asian American parents’ and adolescents’ bidirectional racial-civic socialization

Abstract

Little is known about Asian American family processes that support adolescents’ civic engagement, especially in the context of anti-Asian racism. This convergent mixed-method explanatory study examined bidirectional racial-civic socialization (RCS) between Asian American parent–adolescent dyads around racial discrimination and how RCS relates to adolescents’ civic engagement. Using observations of 78 Asian American parent–adolescent dyads discussing anti-Asian hate, exploratory qualitative analyses identified how critical consciousness is intertwined in bidirectional RCS. In surveys with 449 dyads (M_parent-age = 46; 81% mothers; M_{adolescent-age} = 14.6; 48% girls), actor–partner models found that adolescent-driven RCS related to higher adolescent civic engagement, especially when adolescents were high in critical motivation. Findings have implications for facilitating racial-civic bidirectional socialization and promoting Asian American adolescents’ civic development. This study explored how Asian American parents and adolescents talk about anti-Asian racism and civic engagement. Using surveys and observed family discussions, we found that these conversations were bidirectional, where both parents and adolescents influenced each other. Adolescents who initiated more discussions about race and social issues were more civically engaged, particularly when they felt confident in making change. We also observed that supportive and emotionally warm conversations helped families process racism together. Some parents led discussions confidently, while others had challenges managing emotions. Adolescents used humor or gentle challenges to share their views. Overall, the findings highlight that Asian American families’ open, reciprocal discussions about race and justice can foster youth empowerment, community involvement, and commitment to social change.