multiculturalism
Definition
Multiculturalism refers to a societal condition comprising three key components: Multicultural Ideology (widespread valuing and appreciation of diversity), Multicultural Contact (diverse ethno-cultural groups interacting with each other rather than leading parallel lives), and Multicultural Policies and Practices that support and accommodate diversity. When these criteria are met, multiculturalism can ensure cultural maintenance and equitable participation for all ethno-cultural groups. However, research on multiculturalism in acculturation science has primarily focused on immigrants and their descendants, largely overlooking Indigenous Peoples despite extensive intercultural contact occurring on their lands. From Indigenous perspectives, particularly those of Māori, multiculturalism must be grounded in historical treaties and centered on values such as hospitality and care, while remaining conditional on not overriding bicultural partnerships and Indigenous priorities established through post-colonial contexts.
Sources: Ward et al. (2025)
Related Terms
Applications
Multiculturalism and Psychological Well-being
Perceived multicultural norms—individuals' perceptions of the degree to which their country manifests multicultural contact, ideology and policies—are positively associated with psychological well-being, not only for minority group members but often also for members of the majority group. Additionally, for immigrants and members of minority groups, multicultural policies are associated with greater life satisfaction, though the applicability of these findings to Indigenous Peoples remains understudied.
Sources: Ward et al. (2025)
Multiculturalism and Social Cohesion
Multicultural attitudes and multicultural contact are positively associated with indicators of national and neighborhood social cohesion, particularly increased trust and a stronger sense of solidarity. The presence of national multicultural policies has likewise been shown to relate to higher levels of trust among diverse populations.
Sources: Ward et al. (2025)
Multiculturalism and Colonization
Multiculturalism and colonization represent distinct acculturation contexts that must both be examined when studying Indigenous Peoples in post-colonial settler societies. Before proposing that multiculturalism is the most advantageous approach for cultivating positive intercultural relations in Indigenous communities, it is critical to understand what multiculturalism means to Indigenous Peoples and how they experience it in their everyday lives, accounting for the historical context of colonization.
Sources: Ward et al. (2025)
