Vol. 36 (2026): Volumen 36
Artículos de Investigación

Preservation and change: ethnic identity and psychological acculturation among the O'odham "Papagos" of Sonora

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  • Nissa Yaing Torres Soto,
  • Beamar martinez,
  • Maribel Pallanez Murrieta,
  • María de Lourdes Rojas Armadillo
Nissa Yaing Torres Soto
Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Quintana Roo
Beamar martinez
Universidad Autonoma del estado de Quintana Roo
Maribel Pallanez Murrieta
Universidad Estatal de Sonora
María de Lourdes Rojas Armadillo
Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Quintana Roo
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15174/au.2026.4612

Published 2026-02-25

How to Cite

Torres Soto, N. Y., Martínez Ramirez, B., Pallanez Murrieta, M., & Rojas Armadillo, M. de L. (2026). Preservation and change: ethnic identity and psychological acculturation among the O’odham "Papagos" of Sonora. Acta Universitaria, 36, 1–19. https://doi.org/10.15174/au.2026.4612

Copyright (c) 2026 Nissa Yaing Torres Soto, Beatriz Martínez Ramirez, Maribel Pallanez Murrieta, María de Lourdes Rojas Armadillo

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

Abstract

This research analyze the meaning of ethnic identity and psychological acculturation among the “Papagos” indigenous group from Sonora, Mexico. A qualitative approach with an interpretative perspective on symbolic interactionism, utilizing case studies through in-depth interviews. Results show that the native language is identified as crucial cultural refuge for maintaining identity amidst cultural homogenization, social relationships, internal and external to the ethnic group, are essential for adapting to new cultural influences without losing one´s essence. The limitations of the study were the dependence on a translator during interviews may have affected the accuracy of responses. In conclusion, it is necessary to understand the role of language and social relationships in ethnic identity aids in designing effective strategies to enhance cultural resilience and social cohesion in indigenous communities. Value: this study provides a foundation for future research and policies aimed at supporting cultural preservation and the integration of indigenous communities in multicultural contexts.

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