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Social and Economic Characteristics of the Arab American Population
Abstract
Following the guidelines set by the Office of Management and Budget, the Census Bureau classifies as White those who descend from Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. By using the 2010 American Community Survey ancestry and race data, this paper analyzes the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of Arab Americans. This study focuses on analyzing Arabs and non-Arab White ancestry groups according to their nativity status (native versus foreign born) and the following three outcomes: First, in regards to demographic characteristics, we examine the age and gender composition of both native and foreign born population. Second, we analyze these groups’ economic achievements by measuring their median income and occupation distributions. Finally, we analyze these groups’ social traits as indicated by their educational attainments, marital status, language spoken at home, and family size. By examining differences and similarities between native-born and foreign-born Arabs and non-Arab White ancestry groups, this study aims to contribute to the understanding of the demographic and socio-economic characteristics of the Arab American population.
Discipline
Sociology
Geographic Area
North America
Sub Area
Ethnic American Studies