IDENTITY DEVELOPMENT AMONG BLASTERAN (MIXED-RACE) INDIVIDUALS IN INDONESIAN SOCIETY

Abstract

This research examines the identity development of blasteran (mixed-race) individuals in Indonesia, focusing on how they navigate their cultural heritage and social integration within Indonesian society. Drawing from qualitative data, the study explores the experiences of seven informants, aged 19 to 22, who live in urban areas such as Jakarta and Bekasi. The informants, representing a range of mixed ethnic backgrounds, provide insight into the complexities of identifying as both Indonesian and foreign. The research investigates the personal experiences of these individuals, emphasizing how familial dynamics, societal expectations, and cultural influences shape their sense of self and belonging. Through phenomenological analysis, the study highlights how cultural, social, and familial factors contribute to the sense of belonging and self-acceptance of blasteran individuals. The findings reveal a nuanced understanding of identity, where mixed-race individuals experience a sense of pride and challenges reconciling their dual heritage. This study contributes to the broader discourse on race, ethnicity, and identity in Southeast Asia, particularly in post-colonial contexts. It underscores the importance of social acceptance and personal agency in developing a coherent mixed-race identity.