What is a New Generation Latino (NGL)? They’re Latinos ages 14 to 30 who were either born in the U.S. or have been here for at least fifteen years. – and they represent nearly 3 out of 4 Hispanics in that age segment. In 2012, Tr3s partnered with Motivo Insights and the New Generation Latino Consortium (NGLC) for the Maximo Report, a research study focusing on uncovering insights about this fast-growing demographic. This analysis featured a quantitative online survey of Latinos and non-Hispanic whites ages 14 to 30, as well as focus groups and other discussions in New York, Los Angeles, and Houston.

The following are a few key findings about who NGLs are and how they’re encountering the world in these recessionary times:

They’re living comfortably in a bicultural world. NGLs’ identities may be complex, but they feel comfortable as both Latinos and Americans. Over 7 out of 10 say they’re proud of their Latino culture – and the same proportion reports that they feel completely accepted by Americans and people from their country of origin.

Their parents play a significant role in their personal priorities and long-term goals. More than 7 in 10 feel it’s very important to be able to take care of their parents later in life – and they’re almost twice as likely as white, non-Hispanics to hold this sentiment. Close to half feel that being better off than their parents is very important. (And they’re almost 90% more likely than white non-Hispanics to hope for this level of prosperity.)

They’re cautiously optimistic about the future. When asked if they felt the recession was getting better, 59% agreed (116 index vs. white non-Hispanics). But no matter what the situation, a large proportion think they naturally have what it takes to get by – 55% believe Latinos are better at surviving through tough economic times.

They’re feeling less stressed than white non-Hispanics. Many are feeling frazzled – nearly half state that they have a lot of stress in their lives. However, they’re less stressed than white non-Hispanics (78 index).

Education is a major focus. After entertainment, education is the second biggest area where they see Latinos making the most progress over the next decade. The issues most important to them are doing well in school and finding a job. (For white non-Hispanics, finding a job is the top priority.) And related to education, their number one fulfillment is having a successful career.

Source: 2012 Maximo Report, Motivo Insights and NGLC