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Who are the UK’s minority ethnic groups? Issues of identification and measurement in a longitudinal study

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  • Burton, Jonathan
  • Platt, Lucinda
  • Nandi, Alita

Abstract

In this paper we highlight issues related to measuring ethnicity and ethnic identity. We base our discussion on an extensive review of the literature and an intensive consultation process undertaken as part of the development of the ethnicity focused strand of a major new UK panel study, Understanding Society. We conclude that ethnic identity is a multi-dimensional concept and its ideal measure would have to be consistent, reliable as well as capture people’s perception of their own ethnic identity. One way forward is to design a multiple response question with different dimensions of ethnicity as response options.

Suggested Citation

  • Burton, Jonathan & Platt, Lucinda & Nandi, Alita, 2008. "Who are the UK’s minority ethnic groups? Issues of identification and measurement in a longitudinal study," ISER Working Paper Series 2008-26, Institute for Social and Economic Research.
    • Handle: RePEc:ese:iserwp:2008-26
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Kanabar, Ricky & Nandi, Alita & Perez, Victor, 2018. "Low income dynamics among ethnic minorities in Great Britain," ISER Working Paper Series 2018-06, Institute for Social and Economic Research.
    2. Nandi, Alita & Platt, Lucinda, 2009. "Developing ethnic identity questions for Understanding Society, the UK Household Longitudinal Study," Understanding Society Working Paper Series 2009-03, Understanding Society at the Institute for Social and Economic Research.

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