Final answer:
Identification with a nationality without the duties of citizenship is typically tied to one's ethnic identity, often expressed through hyphenated terms in the U.S. The choice of identifying simply as 'American' can reflect a complex, mixed background and the impact of geography on one's identity. Transnational identities also play a role as immigrants balance ties to their heritage with life in a new country.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of identifying with a nationality without the full rights and responsibilities of citizenship often involves a sense of ethnic identity. This includes an association with an ancestral homeland or group. In the United States, this is commonly expressed through hyphenated terms, such as Chinese-American, Mexican-American, etc., signifying a combination of national origins and current residence. However, national origin can be distinguished from ethnicity, and it's important to recognize that within any nation there can be a multitude of ethnic groups with their own distinct identity.
When people have a complex or mixed background, they may choose to identify simply as 'American' which can be seen as an attempt to acknowledge a blended heritage that defies specific categorizations. This identity choice reflects the concept that geography significantly impacts one's ethnic self-definition.
Furthermore, transnational identities emerge as immigrants maintain connections to their places of origin while residing in another country. Observing rooting interests during international sports events can reveal the layers of identity that people navigate between their cultural heritage and current nationality.