Ethnic-Racial Identity Developmental Trajectories Across the Transition to College

There is limited longitudinal research examining multiple ethnic-racial identity (ERI) components from adolescence into young adulthood. The current study modeled Latino adolescents’ ERI trajectories across the college transition (N = 206; Mage = 18.10 years, SD = 0.41; 65.0% female). Longitudinal data from a survey administered on five occasions across 3 years were analyzed using multilevel growth modeling. Prior to college, Latino heritage culture orientation was positively associated with ERI exploration and resolution. ERI exploration increased over time. ERI resolution was high with no average change; Latino heritage culture orientation predicted variability in resolution over time. Before college, male-identifying youth reported higher ERI public regard from teachers/professors compared to female-identifying youth. Public regard increased to a greater extent for female compared to male adolescents. The findings join evidence for lifespan and intersectional models of ERI development.