From Binary to Multidimensional: Reframing Latino Acculturation in Political Science

This dissertation challenges prevailing binary acculturation models in Latino political science research, which fail to capture the complexity of Latino acculturation. It introduces the Multidimensional Latino Acculturation Model (MLAM), a framework acknowledging diverse acculturation pathways. The MLAM considers four acculturation orientations, emphasizing hybrid identities such as Bicultural and newly identified Demicultural orientations, validated using data from the 2006 Latino National Survey (LNS) with 4,785 participants. Through innovative non-parametric methodologies and comparative cluster analysis, including Gaussian Mixture Models (GMM) and K-Means clustering, the MLAM captures the nuance and fluidity of Latino identities. The analysis demonstrates robust empirical support for well-defined clusters, confirmed through metrics such as the Silhouette Score, Dunn Index, and Calinski-Harabasz Index. The empirical results reveal critical flaws in traditional binary models, showing that three-quarters of Latinos are not represented by binary acculturation frameworks. Robustness checks further validate the stability of these acculturation orientations. 1 The study connects acculturation orientations to political identities and issuefocused cross-pressures, offering a nuanced understanding of Latino political behavior. Bicultural individuals exhibit strong identification with both Latino and American identities and show robust support for immigrants and lenient immigration policies. In contrast, Demicultural individuals display moderate identification with both cultures, less support for immigrants and lenient immigration policies, and more varied political behaviors. This research advances a decolonial and empirically robust framework that enhances understanding of Latino acculturation and its political implications. The MLAM's utility in examining political behaviors demonstrates its potential to transform future research in Latino acculturation studies and broader social science research. These findings have significant implications for research, suggesting a need for more nuanced approaches to understanding and addressing Latino political behavior and acculturation.