Models of Second-Culture Acquisition

Teresa LaFromboise, Hardin Coleman, and Jennifer Gerton coined the phrase second-culture acquisition to denote the process by which an individual gains competence in a culture other than his or her culture of origin. Although the term acculturation has historically been the predominant term for describing the general psychological process by which an individual exists in two cultures, it has also been used to describe a specific way in which individuals adjust to two-culture existence. Specifically, acculturation refers to the process by which individuals internalize the second culture while losing their connection to their culture of origin. The term second-culture acquisition was developed to clarify the distinction between acculturation as a process (synonymous with second-culture acquisition) and acculturation as a directional relationship in which an individual adheres more strongly to the second culture while loosening ties with the culture of origin. LaFromboise, Coleman, and Gerton suggested that second-culture acquisition be used to denote the broad process of coping with second-culture contact and that [Page 311]acculturation be used to describe a specific way in which an individual copes with the contact.

Second-culture acquisition, or the way in which an individual strategically interacts with two cultures, occurs in six ways. Specifically, separation, assimilation, acculturation, alternation, multiculturalism, and fusion are strategic ways in which individuals deal with the experience of existing in two distinct cultures simultaneously.

Separation, assimilation, acculturation, alternation, multiculturalism, and fusion models for coping with second-culture contact provide a framework for understanding the complex process that occurs for individuals and society as multiple cultures coexist. It is important to note that for some individuals, some strategies or models may not be viable options given their sociopolitical climate or race-related issues. Although individuals may indeed choose the manner in which they cope with second-culture contact, the reason for that choice may be vastly different. It may be important to understand the context in which the choice is made.

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