Acculturation and Life Satisfaction of Yi Villagers in China: A Survey Based on Different Yi Ethnic Branches

Abstract

 Abstract

          There are many Yi branches with different cultural characteristics in China. In this study, the researchers chose by stratified sampling a total of 522 Yi villagers from different branches to investigate their acculturation and life satisfaction. The results showed that: (1) the acculturation strategies of Yi villagers were mainly integrated, followed by separation, and a small part of assimilation and marginalization; (2) the acculturation of different Yi branches showed a trend from separation to integration, and then assimilation and marginalization after complete contact; (3) the acculturation of Yi villagers is significantly related to individual gender, age, education, income, and marital status; and (4) both the Yi acculturation attitude and the mainstream acculturation attitude have a significant positive predictive effect on life satisfaction. Therefore, the government should adhere to and strategically adjust the policy of regional autonomy, increase the investment in primary education, develop the economy, and break down the within-group marriage habits to improve the acculturation of the Yi villagers.

 Keywords: Acculturation, life satisfaction, Yi ethnic, Yi branch