Critical Consciousness Among Young Adults in a Community in Hawaiʻi

Abstract

In this convergent parallel mixed-methods study, I utilized Diemer et al.’s (2022) previously validated Short Critical Consciousness Survey (ShoCCS) and conducted virtual interviews with a sample of young adults aged 18 to 25 in a rural community on the island of Oʻahu, Hawaiʻi, to explore how perceptions of community circumstances influenced participants’ aspirations and opportunities. The research framework centered on critical consciousness to assess the internal mechanisms by which young adults perceived and responded to their life chances. Analysis of both survey and interview data demonstrated a strong sense of agency among participants, with evidence of high motivation to overcome obstacles to personal and community well-being. However, traditional modes of civic and political engagement among participants were generally low. It is important for both individual and community development that young adults engage in civic and political life in a full range of forms. Thus, the development of programs and structures that boost involvement is highly recommended. Although the chosen community of Wahiawā and Whitmore Village areas may not be the most central facet of the participants’ identities, this study called attention to the geographic, social, and historical influences on its members.