Impact of biculturalism and bilingualism on individual identity formation and sense of belonging in bicultural bilinguals

The present study examines the impact of bilingualism and biculturalism on cultural identity and sense of belonging, with a focus on a specific group of individuals: the native bicultural bilinguals. The first chapter unpacks the concepts of bilingualism and biculturalism highlighting the relevance of narrowing down the focus of this study to a specific group of individuals, the second chapter explores the concepts of cultural identity and sense of belonging with a review of previous studies on these fields in regard to bicultural individuals, and the third chapter is a case study on native bicultural bilinguals. Using the Bicultural Identity Integration Scale (BIIS), the present study reveals that native bicultural bilinguals perceive their cultural identities as harmonious and blended, and seem to be able to move comfortably on their cultures9 continuum, proving that biculturalism fosters cultural competence and efficacy. The use of the General Belongingness Scale (GBS) revealed that native bicultural bilinguals are able to feel a sense of belonging in both their cultures.