Ethnic–Racial Socialization Measures for Parents of Migrant and Nonmigrant Descent in Germany

We developed new measures of ethnic–racial socialization for parents of migrant and nonmigrant descent in Germany, useful for much-needed studies on this topic. Our pre-registered study included 1,052 parents (50.5% migrant descent, 60% mothers) of school-aged children. Using exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses, initial results for separate scales showed that the item-loadings and factor structure for the two groups differed. Dimensions specific to migrant descent parents were negotiating Germany’s racist past and inequities, promotion of heritage culture, and preparation for bias. Dimensions specific to nonmigrant parents were questioning German (national) identity and German-regional socialization. Subsequent analyses identified six common dimensions that included socialization regarding egalitarianism/pluralism, color-evasion, religion, antiracism, critical consciousness, and promotion of mistrust. The six dimensions demonstrated measurement invariance across migration status, gender, region, and educational status. We conclude that the scales demonstrate good psychometric properties and are appropriate for use in Germany and potentially other European countries.