Modeling the Structure of Multiracial Identity: A Latent Class Approach

The new data on race and Hispanic origin provide a vast array of information about the racial and ethnic composition of the United States. Yet, social scientists, demographers, and policy makers are now faced with the serious issue of using these data appropriately. While datacollection is well-advanced, theoretical and methodological developments are only in the beginning stages. To contribute to this area, this paper articulates the utility of latent class analysis for modeling such phenomena as a basis for theoretical advance. Specifically, we examine the latent structure of race and Hispanic origin responses in Census 2000 to provide some empirical basis for further theorizing of Americas current race/ethnic situation. Forexample, race theorists have repeatedly hypothesized that Americas most powerful racial divide today is between Blacks and non-Blacks, rather than between Whites and non-Whites. Our analyses will provide a new testing ground for this and related ideas because we take into account the full array of multiple race and Hispanic origin responses.