Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

A Modified Trier Social Stress Test for Vulnerable Mexican American Adolescents
Published on: July 10, 2017
Subgroup respect, social engagement, and well-being: A field study of an ethnically diverse high school
Yuen J Huo1, Ludwin E Molina, Kevin R Binning
1Department of Psychology, University of California, Los Angeles, 4625 Franz Hall, Box 951563, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1563, USA. huo@psych.ucla.edu
Abstract:
Recent research points toward the utility of the pluralist (multicultural) model as a viable alternative to the traditional assimilation model of cultural integration. In this study, we extend this work by evaluating when and to what extent feelings that members of a common group respect and value one's ethnic group membership (subgroup respect) shape social engagement and well-being. We do so in the context of a survey of students at a diverse, public high school. Subgroup respect was linked to more positive evaluations of both school authorities and students from ethnic outgroups as well as to lower levels of school disengagement. Consistent with past research, these relationships held only among ethnic minority groups (African Americans, Asian Americans, and Latinos) but not among Whites. Findings about the relationship between subgroup respect and indicators of well-being were more mixed, with the relationship most evident among Asians Americans and Latinos and especially on indicators of physical health. Implications for understanding the consequences of pluralism are discussed in light of the observed ethnic group differences.
Related Concept Videos
Ethnic Identity within a Larger Culture
Surveys
Sources of Self-Esteem III: Social Comparison
Robbers Cave
Social Psychology and Individual Behavior
Social Foundations of Self II: The Generalized Other
