Self stereotypes, Maltese identities and intercultural relations : a comparison of Maltese in Malta and the Australian diaspora

Abstract

The present paper presents findings from a study which has investigated Maltese identity amongst the Maltese in Malta and the Maltese in Australia. The study inquired into how the Maltese perceive the positive and negative aspects of Maltese identity, and proceeded to compute general identity ratios for comparative purposes. The study demonstrates that the Maltese in Malta hold Europeans in higher esteem than they do themselves. Conversely, the Maltese in Australia hold their own group in highest esteem. The paper concludes by discussing the identity and intercultural relations implications of the present findings.