Ethnocentrism as a Social-Psychological Phenomenon: Findings of a Study of Ethnic Groups in Uzbekistan
Author(s)
Levkovich, V. P.; Andrushchak, I. B.
Abstract
The author tested a model of ethnocentrism in Uzbekistan. The ethnic stereotypes, ethnocentrism, group ethnic identity, and perceived cultural distance of 70 Uzbeks, 52 Russians, 22 Tatars, and 20 Jews (aged 20-30 yrs) were measured. Results indicate that the level of ethnocentrism is not identical in all the ethnic groups studied. It was highest in groups forming the ethnic majority in Tashkent (Uzbeks and Russians) and lowest in groups forming ethnic minorities (Tatars and Jews). According to these findings, the high level of ethnocentrism among Russians and Uzbeks is due to a breakdown in their positive ethnic identity. The authors suggest that the breakdown in positive ethnic identity in the Russian and Uzbek groups is associated with the present social and political changes brought about by Uzbekistan’s acquisition of sovereignty.
