Constructing Hakka Ethnic Identity Through Narrative Genealogy Writing

Abstract

Ethnic identity exists within multiple cultural societies and is beneficial for individuals of an ethnic minority to build eudaimonic well-being. For ethnic identity research concerning ethnic minorities, it is critical to understand the drivers and effects of ethnic identity on eudaimonic well-being. Drawing on the perspective of narrative identity development, this study aims to investigate whether narrative writing of genealogy and a life story would improve the ethnic identity for the individuals of the Hakka ethnic minority and consequently facilitate fostering in them eudaimonic well-being. A total of 128 Hakka participants with the experience of writing genealogy were recruited by purposive sampling. The findings support the proposition that minorities through narrative genealogy writing about their identity can lead them to identify with their family and ethnic group, and thereby foster in them a sense of eudaimonic well-being. The Hakka minority can construct their ethnic identity through narrative genealogy writing.